The Melbreak herd was established in October 2000, just before James started at vet school. The Ashhollow herd was established in July 2000 by Alison. In November 2006 following marriage and a move to Northern Ireland the two herds were amalgamated and the decision was made to continue the Melbreak prefix.

The herd takes its name from one of west Cumbria’s most prominent and well know fells “ Melbreak” , renowned for its situation in the valley and for the pack of hounds which regularly patrol its fields.