The air is positively crackling with excitement as the point to point season is set to start on November 30.

The air is positively crackling with excitement as the point to point season is set to start on November 30 and there is nothing better to get an enthusiast in the mood than the satisfying thud as the latest edition of Mackenzie and Harris's Hunter Chasers and Point to Pointers form book lands on the doormat. This year is the 50th edition and thud is a bit of an understatement. The 1248 page volume is likely to set off a small earthquake or at the very least knock out the unwary dog. So there is plenty to keep you occupied - if the book isn't for you, then don't expect to get much action out of the recipient apart from the odd 'hah!' or 'would you believe it?' as they delve into the pages. The Devon and Cornwall point to point area is the biggest in the country - not only geographically - as there are 30 meetings during the season, nine of which also host pony races. The national season kicks off with the Black Forest Lodge Hunt Club meeting on November 30 and ends next June at the Torrington Farmers' meeting at Umberleigh. And this area is well served by prolific point to point trainers: national lady rider champion Polly Gundry and her partner Ed Walker are based in Ottery St Mary, Monique Pike is based at Sidbury and Richard Barber at Seaborough as well as a host of smaller yards sending out runners.l Hunter Chasers and Point to Pointers is available from Weatherbys Chase, price £45.l To order direct from Weatherbys Chase, please call 01933 304792, e-mail orders@weatherbys.co.uk, or download the 'Essential Selection Brochure' and post your order.Back issues of all of Weatherbys Chase books are also available, please call them for details.