Trail hunting event reignites rural tradition debate

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 06:09 · Archive

A trail hunting event near Worcester has renewed divisions over rural traditions and animal welfare amid government plans for a ban.

A trail hunting event held at Bow Wood near Upton Snodsbury on Saturday has reignited debate over rural traditions and animal welfare. Hosted by Worcestershire Hunt as one of four flagship events across England, the event prompted strong public reactions that expose deep divisions over the issue.

Worcester holds particular significance in this debate, as it was the former Labour MP for Worcester, Mike Foster, who proved instrumental in the campaign that led to a ban on hunting with dogs in England and Wales more than two decades ago. Yet two decades on, the issue continues to provoke strong emotions on both sides.

Supporters vigorously defend trail hunting as a rural tradition and insist they adhere to the law. Critics, however, contend that trail hunting is a 'smokescreen' for actual fox hunting. County hunt organisers vehemently deny this claim but now face renewed pressure from government. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has launched a twelve-week consultation to gather perspectives on how to enforce and implement a ban on trail hunting.

How it is being reported

• How hunting event exposed deep divisions over tradition, bans and animal welfareThe National Trail Hunting Day at Bow Wood near Upton Snodsbury has fuelled a debate which shows the divisions in our societyWorcester News · 24 Oct, 05:00
• How hunting event exposed deep divisions over tradition, bans and animal welfareThe National Trail Hunting Day at Bow Wood near Upton Snodsbury has fuelled a debate which shows the divisions in our societyMalvern Gazette · 24 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Worcestershire Hunt · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs · Mike Foster · Worcester · Upton Snodsbury

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