THE WEATHER conditions were perfect for Hursley Hambledon Hunt on its traditional Boxing Day meet.

Around 40 riders took part with hundreds of people supporting the event on foot.

Riders met outside the Bucks Head pub in Meonstoke before setting off up Old Winchester Hill and heading in the direction of West Meon.

Hunt secretary Rosamond Masterman was pleased with the outcome of the December 26 gathering.

“I say it every year but I was very pleased with the amount of support we received. We had about 40 horses take part and it went extremely well – a good time had by all.

“Every event has to be carefully planned. We have to bear in mind where we go and the weather.

“We have had a lot of rain but this year the weather was lovely.”

Before the riders set off, one of the Joint Masters, Mark Thistlethwayte, gave a speech to thank everyone for attending and showing their support for the event.

The group will be holding a Newcomers Day at the beginning of next season, which is in September.

“We’ve already had a lot of interest in the event,” Mrs Masterman added.

The group holds trail hunting events – one of several legal alternatives for hunts since the ban on hunting of wild animals with dogs.

Hounds follow an artifical scent that has been laid in a way which mimics a real fox hunt, taking in different types of countryside.

This comes after the controversy around fox hunting, which led to the passing of the Hunting Act in 2004, which made hunting with dogs unlawful in England and Wales from February 2005.

Throughout the year, the group holds other events and fundraisers. This includes a Christmas raffle, end of season masquerade ball, hunter trial and horse and dog show.

The Hursley and Hambledon Hunts were separate for more than 200 years, each having a rich history but in 1978 they amalgamated and they have kennels at Droxford.

For more information on the Hursley Hambledon Hunt, visit its website at: www.hursleyhambledonhunt.com or call Mrs Masterman on 01489 877628.