Hunting fans have vowed to press on with traditional Boxing Day meets – but 250,000 supporters will be denied the chance to wave off “Tally-ho!” riders and baying hounds.
Coronavirus curbs mean hunts across the country have advised locals against gathering in rural towns and villages. Animals welfare campaigners claimed hunting was in crisis.
Fox hunting was outlawed in February 2005 following a vote in Parliament on the 2004 Hunting Act. But trail hunting, where riders and hounds follow a scent along a pre-determined route, is allowed.
It is meant to replicate a traditional hunt but without a fox being chased, maimed or killed. But activists claim it is simply cover for hunts to pursue and kill foxes.