Over 250 hunts gathered at Boxing Day and New Years Day meets as they were celebrated by the farmers and landowners on whose land they protect livestock, game and other ground nesting birds. This support is contrary to the League Against Cruel Sports’ suggestions of “public concerns of illegal practices”.

Countryside Alliance’s Head of Hunting, Polly Portwin commented: “People put this date in the diary as part of their annual festivities, demonstrating the importance of hunting activities to the rural community. The huge crowds showing their support again today prove that the future of hunting is secure.”

Countryside Alliance Director for Scotland, Jamie Stewart, added: “The support the foxhound packs receive from local communities is demonstrable and is absolutely fantastic. Nothing beats hearing the cheers and claps as the packs ride into the square or the centre of the village and seeing the hundreds of people who have turned out to see them.

“This is the day when we get to thank the hunts for the vital service they provide and offer our continuing support, ahead of what looks like an unwarranted change to the law based on unfound allegations of illegal practices.

Green MSP Alison Green has voiced her opinion for a members bill to further restrict or totally ban the use of fox hounds, but Jamie Stewart adds: “We remain committed to working with the Scottish Government and a wide range of Cross Party politicians to help them better understand the practices employed within the pest control service offered by Mounted Foxhound packs.

“We worked with the government and a range of stakeholders including the League Against Cruel Sports to produce a working Code of Practice for Mounted Foxhound packs

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