Marjorie Stratton, a dedicated horsewoman and family-oriented hunt enthusiast, passed away peacefully at home on 27 January 2026 at the age of 86. Surrounded by her children and dog, she left behind a legacy of support for hunting and equestrian activities in Somerset. Her life was marked by active involvement in local hunts and encouragement for her family's sporting pursuits.
Marjorie Stratton grew up in the north-east of England before moving to Somerset in 1964. She married Roger Stratton in 1966, and the couple enjoyed many seasons hunting with the Mendip Farmers, where Roger served two terms as master before retiring in 2004. They farmed at Burnett outside Bath, and later Marj hunted with the Beaufort and then the Dulverton West, appreciating the moorland terrain.
Known for her expertise, Stratton walked puppies over the years for the Mendip Farmers and the Beaufort. During hunts, she rode wide and possessed exceptional 'hound sense,' which both Tony Younghusband and Ian Farquahar found particularly helpful. After retiring from the saddle, she continued her passion by hunting with the local pack of basset hounds.
A devoted family member, Stratton took pride in her three children—Adam, Chris, and Jess—and their grandchildren's achievements in sports such as Pony Club tetrathlon, eventing, dressage, and rowing. Her contributions to the Pony Club earned her a long service medal at the Royal Windsor Horse Show, recognizing her support for events and her work writing for dressage judges.
In December 2025, for her 86th birthday on 9 December, Charlie Ford brought the Dorset and Somerset Bassets to Bourton. The family hosted friends from the Mendip Farmers, Beaufort, Dulverton West, and the Bassets, and the group enjoyed a successful day hunting on White Sheet Hill.
Roger and Marjorie moved to Zeals from Marshfield in later years; Roger passed away in April 2025. Stratton maintained a circle of walking friends in the village and was remembered fondly. As one observer noted, 'there was something very special about Marj.' Deepest sympathies go to her children and their families.