DEEP-MOUTHED MUSIC: THE FIRST 50 YEARS OF THE CARLISLE OTTERHOUNDS 1863-1913. By Ron Black and Jean Gidman.

# 2013 1st edition. 8vo paperback (148 x 210mm). Ppxiv,140. Colour illustrations, b/w photographs.

# "This book is, as far as we know, the first attempt to tell the story of the Carlisle Otterhounds, whose success on the river was matched only by their success in the show ring. The Northern Lake District and the Border country is well supplied with lakes, rivers, and streams and at certain times in history the supply of otters was plentiful so much so that at the time of Henry VIII they were declared vermin. Victorian times saw the formation and rapid expansion of angling clubs which soon clashed with the resident otter population for their prey. The Victorian anglers made a determined effort to control their rival with packs of otterhounds. Some of these packs survived while others did not. The Carlisle Otterhounds began in 1863 and were one of the longest lasting packs. This book, using contemporary reports and songs written in their honour, illustrates the pack's first 50 years." This book is one of a limited edition, without the number of copies being stated. A good history drawn from hundreds of contemporary sources.