AFTER crowds attended the Tetcott Hunt’s Boxing Day meet in Holsworthy Square it was more of the same for the traditional New Year’s meet at The Tree Inn, Stratton on January 2.

There was great support once again with scores of onlookers packing the pavements and streets outside the famous 13th century coaching inn.

They came with cameras clicking, some with children perched on their shoulders, to witness the colourful tradition stretching back hundreds of years.

Kennel huntsman Simon Cann was delighted with the show of public support. He said: “We always receive such a magnificent welcome at The Tree Inn with the area bursting with people. It is lovely to see so many people, young and old alike, mingling freely among the hounds and horses.

“It is a real privilege to be able to ride to hounds across such beautiful countryside, which of course just wouldn’t be possible without the support of our farmers and landowners. Our trail layers do a really good job covering huge distances laying a scent for the hounds to follow and to ensure some fast and furious riding for the mounted followers including children. Having young riders out with us is also very encouraging for the future of hunting.”

Hunt treasurer, Diana Stevens, added: “What a day to start 2017 with the sun shining and lots of happy faces on hounds, horses and riders covering over some beautiful countryside. We had a welcome refreshments stop during the afternoon before riding on until dusk. The Tree Inn put on a lovely meet before the trail hunting begins and it draws such a big crowd of locals and visitors, who all enjoy meeting the horses and hounds. It just goes to show that this is a traditional scene the public wish to continue seeing.”

The riders and hounds then set off to follow the pre-laid trails around Marhamchurch. The New Year meet heralds the start of the second half of the Tetcott Hunt’s trail hunting season, which will continue on Tuesdays and Saturdays until the end of March.