AFTER large crowds attended the Tetcott Hunt’s Boxing Day meet in Holsworthy it was more of the same for the traditional New Year’s Day meet at the Tree Inn in Stratton.

Scores of onlookers packed the pavements and streets outside the famous 13th century coaching inn.

People came with cameras clicking, some with children perched on their shoulders, to witness the tradition.

Joint master Diana Stevens said: “We always receive such a magnificent welcome at the Tree Inn in Stratton with the triangle bursting with people.

“It is a great privilege to be able to trail hunt over our beautiful countryside and we are so grateful to our hardworking farmers for allowing us.

“It is at these types of meet that we hope to educate the public about what trail hunting is — the following of a pre-laid scent trail that the huntsman aims to find with his hounds for the mounted field and others to follow.

“It is a beautiful sight watching the hounds work together and is an education and challenge for the horse and rider to follow them.

“As people would have gathered at the meet it is a healthy pursuit, done in all weathers by all ages. What other sport can boast that?

“Our trail layers got very wet from the outset with the ditches and rivers running at full capacity but we are very grateful for the sport they provide for us throughout the season.”

Bob and Emma Semple, licensees of the Tree Inn, generously provided the traditional stirrup cup of mulled wine, along with some tasty snacks, as they have done for many years.

After the riders and hounds set off, to applause, to follow the pre-laid trails around Marhamchurch, Emma took time out from pulling pints to reflect on the annual event.

She said: “This is always a most enjoyable occasion; Bob and I love the spectacle which makes for a lovely morning.

“It is a really nice atmosphere bringing out lots of lovely people who get great enjoyment from this old countryside tradition.

“It would be a great loss if it ever came to an end because many of those supporting the event see it as part of the old country ways.”

New Year’s Day heralds the start of the second half of Tetcott Hunt’s trail hunting season that will continue on Tuesdays and Saturdays until the end of March.