Lewes Boxing Day hunt: 'Peaceful' year for controversial annual event

The trail hunt was one of two which took place in Sussex on Boxing Day.

Packs of hounds from Southdown and Eridge Hunt were led up the High Street and people on horseback made their way through the town. 

Hundreds gathered to watch the parade (Image: Bertie Carter)

Trail hunting involves laying a scent across the countryside which a pack of hounds then searches for and follows.

Sussex Police attended to make sure the event was safe for spectators and hunters.

The event is controversial and animal rights protesters often make an appearance but this year's passed peacefully.

Last year, one person was arrested when protesters and supporters gathered at the annual foxhound parade.

Bertie Carter, who attended this year, said: "I arrived just as it started and there wasn't any obvious protesting, unlike other years when it has got quite rowdy.

"I'd say it was quite peaceful."

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Prior to the event, a spokesman for Sussex Police said: “We recognise the event is likely to attract many spectators, as well as protesters, and police will be present to ensure the safety of the horses, hounds, public and police."

Lewes District Council issued a temporary road closure to allow the hunters to parade through the town.

It was a bright but chilly day in Lewes (Image: Bertie Carter)

The council had received two applications for road closures, one from the hunt group and another from Action Against Foxhunting.

"Following a consultation with statutory agencies, both events were offered a road closure in the town on Boxing Day, in separate locations," said Councillor Johnny Denis, cabinet member for communities and customers.

"Guidance from Action Against Fox Hunting was carefully considered in the processing of these applications, as was the national legislation under which all road closure applications must be handled.

"The issuing of a road closure is not an endorsement of an event. We would ask anyone who is planning to attend either event to do so peacefully."

Fox hunting was banned by the Hunting Act 2004 in England and Wales, and the Protection of Wild Mammals Act 2002 in Scotland.

Sussex Police have been contacted for an update.