THE Tetcott Hunt stayed true to form this year and held its traditional hunt meet in Holsworthy Square on Boxing Day.

For decades Boxing Day has been a firm date in the hunting calendar.

This year hunts up and down the country were expected to attract more than one quarter of a million followers and supporters.

True to form, the Tetcott Hunt played its part with its traditional meet in the Square in Holsworthy — the meet being kindly hosted by Jill and Ashley Tallon of the Kings Arms pub.

Scores of people, young and old, packed the pavements to show their support for the very colourful sight of red-jacketed huntsmen and smartly turned riders and horses.

For the young riders, extra colour came by most of their horses decorated with gold and silver tinsel.

Hunt secretary, Diana Stevens, said: “It is wonderful to be welcomed by so many people outside the Kings Arms, Holsworthy.

“Everyone absolutely loves seeing the horses and hounds on Boxing Day — one lady said it wouldn’t be Christmas without coming to see the traditional Boxing Day meet.

“Another lady, who was visiting friends in the area for Christmas,was absolutely overwhelmed by the occasion.

“The hounds absolutely adore meeting the public but particularly the children, so this really is a Christmas treat for them.”

After enjoying very tasty snacks and a glass of festive, the huntsman led the hounds and riders down Chapel Street to Winterland Lane and out towards Affland Moor for a day’s trail hunting.

At the end of the day Diana added: “The weather was perfect for the scent trails which had been laid ahead and the hounds worked them extremely well making for a great day’s viewing for all types of followers.”

Following a really successful day, it was then on to the New Year’s Day meet, hosted by the Tree Inn at Stratton.