The East Kent Foxhounds were cheered by a huge crowd of supporters as they entered Elham Square for the traditional Boxing Day Meet. The crowd filled every available vantage point in the Square and the churchyard with some 200 more supporters waiting on the High Street to cheer the hounds' departure.
Most of the fifty-five mounted supporters entered the Square while some, younger members hung back, away from the throng.
A number of the mounted supporters were hunting for the first time, keen to show their support for the pack and the restoration of hunting: a matter that had been discussed when they first contacted the hunt. The safety railings carried placards that read "Scrap the Act" a message that met with great approval from those on either side of the barrier.
To a great cheer, the cavalcade left the Square and enjoyed a day hunting fox-scented trails that had been put down by supporters on quad bikes, horses and even foot. The East Kent Foxhounds are very clear that their activities are legal and that there is no intention to break the law.
Some supporters remained in Square exchanging seasonal greetings and discussing how long before the Hunting Act is repealed. There was a determined confidence amongst the crowd that this would take place sooner or later.
A hunt supporter, commented:
"It was a great show of support for a great British Tradition - Boxing Day Meets are part of Christmas and actually pre-date such 'traditions' as cards."
"We trail-hunted today, staying as ever, within the law but it won't be too long before hounds will leave the Square on Boxing Day to legally hunt fox again."
"Across the country hundreds of thousands of people turned out to enjoy the spectacle and to send the government a clear message: Scrap the Act - it's failed."
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