Controversial Boxing Day hunt to return to Lewes town centre this year

The Boxing Day spectacle sees riders and hounds parade through the town for the trail-hunting event.

Polly Portwin, director of the Campaign for Hunting at the Countryside Alliance, said: “Boxing Day meets are always an exciting event up and down the country. Thousands of people from all walks of life come together to see the hounds and riders, while meeting with friends and family.

"It doesn’t matter if you trail hunt regularly, or never have, anyone with an interest is always incredibly warmly welcomed. Because of the large crowds drawn in to see both meets, the extra footfall often generates significant support for local businesses in Lewes, who appreciate the custom at this important time of year.”

Trail-hunting involves laying of a scent across the country which a pack of hounds then searches for and follows using their noses. The season starts in the autumn and continues throughout the winter, with most packs finishing during March.

The meet for the Lewes parade is outside the White Hart Hotel in the centre of the town.

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In its recent history, the parade has been met with protests, leading to clashes between protestors, hunters and hunt supporters.

Fox hunting has been illegal in the UK for nearly two decades after it was deemed. Pre-legislation, the terrier man would follow the hunt to dig out foxes that had been killed by the hounds.

Opponents of hunting say alternatives such as trail-hunting are a smokescreen for illegal hunting or a means of circumventing the ban.