Thousands attend BHSA's National Trail Hunting Day

The day, organised by the British Hound Sports Association (BHSA), was created to show what trail hunting is all about amid fears that the government will ban the sport. 

READ MORE: BHSA plans National Trail Hunting Day amid ban fears

Nearly 30 events took place up and down the country. Supporters headed to the events in Wiltshire, Cornwall, Gloucestershire, Devon and Dorset in the south west.

One of the venues in Devon was so popular, they had to limit the attendance to 1,500 people. 

Olly Hughes, managing director of the BHSA, said: “What we have seen is a massive show of support for trail hunting. We would urge the government to engage with us before bringing in new legislation which would be immensely damaging to rural communities up and down the country.

“To attack trail hunting is to attack a rural way of life for tens of thousands of people.

"There is a myth promoted by our opponents that trail hunting is the preserve of a certain echelon of society far removed from most people’s experience. This is simply not true. Anyone who has taken the time to attend the National Trail Hunting Day will have seen that those who support trail hunting represent as diverse a demographic as you would see at any other sporting event.

"Furthermore, the allegation that trail hunting is a cover for illegal activities is patently false. The facts show that trail hunting is a legal, legitimate and well-regulated activity that is fully compliant with the Hunting Act.”

In Gloucestershire, the Heythrop Hunt joined forces with the North Cotswold Hunt, meeting at Cocklebarrow Race Course near Aldsworth. 

The event in Gloucestershire. (Image: Tom Wren / Pin Pep)

“It is wonderful to see so many people in Gloucestershire choosing to come out and support us," said Nessie Chanter, organiser of the event.

"When the Hunting Act came in twenty years ago, we thought it was the end for hunting with hounds. Since then we have adapted, to be able to continue to enjoy the sport, the heritage and the tradition, in full compliance with the law.

"We will continue to present the facts and to show people what we do and how we do it. If we have to host a hundred events like this we will do. I just hope the government will listen.”