Police 'closely watching' Boxing Day hunts for illegal activity
A number of traditional Boxing Day hunts are taking place
Last updated 26th Dec 2022
Police have warned they'll be watching the various Boxing Day hunts very closely.
Officers have attended a number of organised events over the past few months - following claims by campaigners of illegal hunting taking place.
Hundreds turn out to watch the riders set off for Boxing Day hunts in some parts of the West Country on what is the biggest day of the hunting calendar - but there's also been petitions against the practice
The League Against Cruel Sports says it's 'outdated' and claims there were 22 reports of either 'suspected illegal hunting or hunt havoc' in Somerset alone between November 1 and December 7, 2022.
A spokesperson for Avon & Somerset said: "Suspected incidents raised to us by members of the public regarding possible illegal hunting will be investigated.
"Our dedicated Rural Affairs Unit and neighbourhood policing teams have been engaging with organised hunt groups to remind them of their responsibilities. This has included attending several organised hunts and closely monitoring activities throughout the day.
“The rural team has also been delivering sessions to teams across the Avon and Somerset force area on hunting legislation and best practices for investigations.
"We are aware of public concerns around illegal hunting in the Somerset area and would like to reassure people the issue is a priority for our rural affairs unit.
"If you suspect a group is illegally hunting, please call us on 999 if the crime is ongoing or 101 if it is not an emergency."
Earlier this year The League Against Cruel Sports called on Somerset Council to do more to ban trail hunting on land it owns
A demo was also held in Taunton town centre
Ahead of today, a spokesperson for the council said: "Hunting foxes with hounds is illegal under the Hunting Act 2004.
"If anybody suspects illegal hunting activities in Somerset they should report the matter to Avon and Somerset Police."