December 2003

(*)- added since last update

Evesham Journal 31.12.03 Hundreds turn out to see Boxing Day hunts depart - HUNDREDS of people gathered in the centre of Pershore to watch the Boxing Day meet of the Croome and West Warwickshire Hunt. Meanwhile, in Broadway, the seasonal meet of the North Cotswold Hunt also drew a large crowd to a trouble-free event.... (story in archive)

Cornishman 31.12.03 BIGGEST DAY'S HUNTING - On Boxing Day, hunts across the South West, including the Western Hunt in Penwith, welcomed thousands of supporters to their Christmas meets, making it the biggest day's hunting in the region's history.... (story)

Cornwall Packet 31.12.03 THE LAST HUNT? Could this have been the last Boxing Day hunt for the Four Burrow hounds? Judging by the number of hunt supporters who arrived at the top of Carn Brea to see riders set off on their traditional hunt the answer would be a firm no.... (story in archive)

Kentish Gazette 31.12.03 Hunt gets its fox while protesters make point - NOT for the first time protesters at the traditional Boxing Day hunt in Elham claimed this year's meet would be the last. About 40 greeted huntsmen and women in the village square with the now customary howls of abuse... Gerrard Bane, 39, added his voice to the verbal barrage... But joint master of East Kent Hunt David Potter rejected this claim and dismissed the Boxing Day protest as "of no consequence at all".... (story)

Buxton Advertiser 31.12.03 HUNTING 'BOTTOM OF VOTERS' HIT LIST' - A new NOP poll commissioned by the Countryside Alliance has found that 98per cent of the public think that there are more important issues for the Government to tackle than hunting.... (story)

East Anglian Daily Times 31.12.03 Both sides of the hunting debate - THIS is an important part of the year for everyone involved in hunting, with meetings taking place over the Christmas and New Year period. DAVID LENNARD and JENNI DIXON spoke to hunt supporters and opponent.... John Ibbott, 50, from Chediston, near Halesworth, has been hunting since he was 10 years old and has been one of the joint masters of the Waveney Harriers for six years.... A VETERAN anti-hunting campaigner is convinced the Government will soon act to ban what she felt was a cruel and indefensible sport. Jen Berry has protested against hunting all her life and, now a grandmother, her conviction is as strong as ever.... (story)

Torquay Herald Express 31.12.03 HUNTERS OUT IN STRENGTH - South Devon Hunt met at the Moorland Hotel at Haytor for its traditional Boxing Day meet. A handful of protesters were outnumbered by hunt supporters and riders for the occasion. Other meets included Britannia Beagles at the Royal Castle Hotel, Dartmouth, Dart Vale and South Pool Harriers at The Quay, Kingsbridge, and the Dartmoor meet at South Brent.... (story)

Swindon Evening Advertiser 31.12.03 On with the hunt by Andy Tate - Foxhunters from Wiltshire have been out in force over the festive period. On Boxing Day about 230 horses and riders turned out for a meet of the Vale of the White Horse hunt at Cirencester Park, accompanied by thousands of supporters on foot... Mark Hill, the joint master of the VWH hunt, said that he had been asked every year for the past nine years whether hunting would survive another 12 months.... Hunt protester Steve Dixon of Swindon said: "As long as they carry on hunting we will continue to use non-violent direct action to stop them pursuing foxes..." (story in archive)

Bucks Free Press 31.12.03 Hunt protesters deliver sarcastic present to Blair - ANTI-HUNT protesters delivered a Christmas present to Prime Minister Tony Blair in a bid to ban the cruel sport... Protect Our Wild Animals (POWA) made a trip to Chequers on Boxing Day to give him a top hat, hunting crop and a badge bearing the words 'Master of the Chequers Poodlehounds'. Penny Little, the group's spokesman said: "We hope he gets the message loud and clear..." Alan Hill, senior master of the Vale of Aylesbury with Garth and South Berks said: "I think that when Tony Blair came in as Prime Minister he made a statement saying that he was thinking of putting a ban on country sports, not realising at the time the amount of support for country sports and what it means to the countryside. He has come up against the greatest opposition and we feel very passionately to carry on doing so."... (story)

Western Daily Press 31.12.03 FOX DOES NOT NEED HUNTING - I will be only too pleased to explain the basics on how to control natural predation in plain simple terms, a question asked through your letters page on December 12 by D C Adler... The fox does not need hunting or controlling as it will control its own numbers according to territory, food supply, environmental conditions, and population at that particular time, as was clearly proved in the foot-and-mouth epidemic with no visible increase in numbers.... M J Haines, Cirencester, Gloucestershire (letter)

Cornishman 31.12.03 HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ANY BADGERS LEFT - Denny Long, Lower Tregerthen, Zennor ONE evening last summer a Tibetan friend and I saw a badger... Surely there is a way to protect these creatures from TB if it is proven they do carry it, to avoid futher barbaric culling?... (letter)

Exeter Express & Echo 31.12.03 SOMEONE SHOULD HAVE STOPPED SWAN STRANGLER I read with horror and disgust the story about the poor strangled swan, Echo, December 16. I was horrified and disgusted that such wicked and evil deeds can be committed... Mrs D Bandy, Southbrook Road, Exeter (letter)

Swindon Evening Advertiser 31.12.03 Thanks from swan sanctuary - COULD we please take this opportunity to send our thanks, and wish everyone that has supported us throughout the year, a very happy Christmas, and a healthy New Year for 2004... SUE HULBERT, The Swan Sanctuary South West, Shrivenham Road (letter in archive)

Westmorland Gazette 30.12.03 Bad weather forces hunts cancelled By Andy Bloxham - POURING rain coming down in icy sheets across the county on Boxing Day created impossible" conditions for hunting and forced organisers to call off events. Coniston Foxhounds had to cancel when mist and rain made for poor visibility and swollen rivers around Ambleside that were judged to be too dangerous for man and beast alike.... In Kirkby Lonsdale, people filled the Market Square to watch the Vale of Lune Hunt gather but the same poor conditions as at Ambleside meant it was cancelled.... (story)

Western Mail 30.12.03 Greens in hunt-cost row - Colin Hughes, The Western Mail - ANTI-FOXHUNTING campaigners plan to make an official protest over the cost to council taxpayers of a Boxing Day clean-up operation. More than 40 horses from the Banwen Miners Hunt took part in a traditional meet outside the Castle Hotel in Neath... Miranda La Vey, who chairs Neath Greens, said yesterday,"We are very concerned that taxpayers' money was used to clean up the road and will ask the local authority for an explanation...." The Greens are also concerned that many of the riders reached the Castle Hotel by riding the wrong way along a one-way street, often confronting oncoming traffic... (story)
South Wales Evening Post 29.12.03 GREENS' PLEDGE ON HUNTING Angry anti-hunt protestors in Neath have pledged to see the sport banned following a massive protest in the town. The Neath Green Party turned out to protest against fox hunting and animal cruelty on the traditional Boxing Day hunt. They were joined by representatives from the League Against Cruel Sports.... Neath Greens chairwoman Miranda La Vey said: "The Green Party believes hunting is barbaric and should be outlawed immediately..." (story)
Western Mail 27.12.03 For and against line up on hunt day - Colin Hughes, The Western Mail - HUNT supporters remained defiant yesterday as protesters took to the countryside for what could be the last Boxing Day hunts... Riders gathering at meets across Wales - including those organised by Flint and Denbigh Hunt, Eyri Hunt in Snowdonia and the Vale of Glamorgan Hunt - were confident hunting would continue. Hunt supporters and opponents braved rain at Neath to watch the start of the Banwen Miners' Hunt, now in its 40th year.... Miranda La Vey, who chairs Neath Greens, said, "I sincerely hope this will be the last Boxing Day meet.... (story)

Reading Evening Post 30.12.03 Festive hunters foxed - HORSEMEN and women were in the pink for the traditional Boxing Day hunt – but they didn’t catch a fox. They set off from the Turner’s Arms in Mortimer West End pursued by hunt followers and a group of saboteurs. More than 35 mounted hunters from the Vale of Aylesbury with the Garth and South Berkshire Hunt were joined by several hundred hunt followers on foot.... (story)

Western Morning News 30.12.03 KEEP THESE COUNTRYSIDE TRADITIONS - One of the main reasons why fox hunting is acceptable is because it provides jobs which results in economic growth for poor regions such as Cornwall - jobs such as blacksmiths, groomers, dog breeders, tailors and the people who organise hunting all benefit from hunting.... David Heamen, Indian Queens Cornwall (letter)

Western Morning News 30.12.03 Fighting talk is futile - NOEL Edmonds' outburst (WMN, November 22) in favour of breaking the forthcoming ban on hunting only serves to show further the lack of reason and proportion of the pro-hunt side.... If MrEdmonds and others want to risk fines and prison to try to prolong cruel "sports", let them; but it will be expensive and futile and will only increase public contempt for them and their pastimes. Pat Quayle, Hayle (letter)

Western Morning News 30.12.03 HOW OFTEN DOES A HUNT SEE A FOX? - Up until now, I have never got involved with any animal rights, or any other rights, but feel I must make a stand. You cannot change other people because of your own opinions... How often does a hunt see a fox, let alone chase? They can be out all day, good exercise for both dogs and horses, and never see a fox, only chasing the scent of a fox who had passed 24 hours previously.... F J Farleigh Kingsbridge South Devon (letter)

Leicester Mercury 30.12.03 AN ABHORRENT 'SPORT' - I write to congratulate Malcolm Norcrott on his excellent reply to the voice of pro-hunting, "but I do not do it myself", Mr Ian Kilgour. It was very impressive and took apart the arguments of Mr Kilgour.... would it be possible for the Leicester Mercury to reprint a photograph printed in the 6,000th edition of the Hinckley Times showing a dead fox being thrown to the hounds after being caught... If you could print it, we can eagerly await Mr Kilgour's excuses for this behaviour by civilised human beings in 2003. Richard Jones , Barwell (letter)
Leicester Mercury 22.12.03 HUNTING MUST END Ian Kilgour (Postbag, December 18) asks how Andy Reed, MP, knows his constituents' opinions. Last year, my wife and I received a survey from Mr Reed asking our opinion on many topics, one of which was fox-hunting. I replied that I would wish for it to be banned. He replied later with a summary of the results, including that the poll was against fox-hunting and that he would vote against it in future. Good for him... Malcolm Norcott, Barrow. (letter)
Leicester Evening News 22.12.03 HUNTING MUST END - Ian Kilgour (Postbag, December 18) asks how Andy Reed, MP, knows his constituents' opinions. Last year, my wife and I received a survey from Mr Reed asking our opinion on many topics, one of which was fox-hunting… Malcolm Norcott, Barrow. (letter)
Leicester Mercury 18.12.03 BAN IS NOT JUSTIFIED - In a recent article, Andy Reed, the Loughborough MP, said that he had promised to vote for a ban on hunting (Mercury, December 8). He also said that he had asked 60,000 of his constituents and the majority were in favour of a ban on hunting (rather different from recent national opinion polls). I would be very interested to know when he made this promise and to whom. I would also be very interested to know how and when he asked 60,000 of his constituents for their views on hunting… Ian Kilgour, Thurcaston (letter)

Swindon Evening Advertiser 30.12.03 Win the chance to blast peacesymbol - AT this time of the year when we celebrate the birthday of the Prince of Peace, often we use the symbol of a dove. Anyone who takes out a £25 membership in the Countryside Alliance will be entered into a draw to win the ultimate shooting holiday in Argentina. The target? Doves.... REV B JONES, Wroughton (letter in archive)

Cambridge Evening News 30.12.03 From Christopher Michaelson - THE claim that the longed-for non-animal drug testing methods are not sufficient is one reason why Girton is supported. Yet this claim goes against the recent research involving 29 independent laboratories worldwide, which assessed cell culture techniques.... Stop Primate Experiments At Cambridge, Northampton (letter)

Cambridge Evening News 30.12.03 Very undignified From Pat Griffin X-CAPE (Cambridge Against Primate Experiments) - I SUPPOSE Prof Colin Blakemore is quite justified in feeling rejected by the honours list selectors. After all, the Chief Executive of Huntingdon Life Sciences Brian Cass got one, didn't he?... It is evident that Prof Colin Blakemore, like Brian Cass, is becoming a professional martyr and I suspect it is his attention seeking tantrums that wreck his chances of reputable recognition. Very undignified behaviour. Bakers Lane Linton (letter)
Guardian 30.12.03 I'm confused. Why does Richard Naftalin think that withholding a state honour from Colin Blakemore slights science? Brian Cass, the chief executive of Huntingdon Life Sciences got one, didn't he?... Pat Griffin, Cambridge Against Primate Experiments, Cambridge (letter)

Western Morning News 30.12.03 Animal welfare issues - THE letter from Dr Caroline Jackson (WMN, December 23) detailing the improvements she expects the EU to accept and apply in the transportation of live animals is one of the most cynical attempts I have encountered of "talking up" potential beneficial effects of the EU. Does Dr Jackson seriously think that the efforts of a handful of Tory MEPs is going to change the culture of the other 14 (soon 24) EU member countries, whose approach to animal welfare is situated somewhere between plain indifference and sheer barbarity?... Tony Stone, Oxted, Surrey (letter)
Western Morning News 23.12.03 TORY WATCHDOG FOR NEW EU ANIMAL LAW Many of your readers will be interested to know that the European Parliament this week starts its consideration of the proposals for new rules governing the transport of live animals throughout the European Union. We MEPs are already receiving letters from people who believe they should be made more stringent... We will be looking to amend the proposals to make observance more easily verifiable, and hope our continental colleagues follow our lead. Caroline Jackson MEP Swindon (letter)

Ryedale Gazette 29.12.03 We'll meet again - HUNTSMEN and supporters turned out in force in Malton's Market Place confident that they were not attending the last traditional Boxing Day meet. A small group of local anti-hunt protesters was also present and hoping not to be back on December 26, 2004.... "I've been hunting for 14 years and we will be hunting for many years to come," said huntmaster Frank Houghton-Brown. "Rural people have always supported hunting and always will." His hunt, the Middleton Hunt held two meets on the day - at Driffield as well as Malton - and was back in the field again the next day for the regular Saturday meeting it holds during the hunting season. At the top of Market Place, former hunter turned hunt protester Annabel Holt, from Stearsby, near Malton, with Linda Smith, of Norton, and a few other like-minded people held two large protest banners.... Elsewhere in North Yorkshire, the York and Ainsty hunt had two meets, in Boroughbridge and Easingwold, the Zetland met in Aldbrough St John, the Sinnington at Kirkbymoorside, the Bilsdale at Cowesby Hall, the Goathland held a joint meet with the Staintondale in Cloughton Newlands, Scarborough, the Bedale met in Bedale, the Hurworth in Northallerton, the West of Yore in Masham, and the Derwent at Brompton-by-Sawdon... (story in archive)

Peterborough Evening Telegraph 29.12.03 IN FOCUS: 'The tide of opinion is turning'– defiant words as hunt rides once more - THEY rode out again on Boxing Day, just like they have done for the last 30 years. Despite the threat that the bloodsport could be banned, members of the Fitzwilliam Hunt were in defiant mood as they met in Stilton. Chris Sealey reports.... (story)

Plymouth Evening Herald 29.12.03 MAKING HUNTING DEBATE SO REAL Sixth form pupils interested in the hunting debate got to hear both sides of the story when guest speakers visited a Plymouth secondary school. Students at Lipson Community College listened to speeches by representatives of the South Dartmoor Hunt and the League Against Cruel Sports... Elly Stygall, director of the sixth form, revealed that the response from all involved had been positive.... "It was also an excellent opportunity for students to listen to opinions that were not necessarily their own, and to respond respectfully and intelligently. I think that some stereotypes were definitely challenged through this event." (story)

Western Mail 29.12.03 CLA head predicts tough times - Steve Dube, The Western Mail - A STORMY start to a year that ushers in a new era in farming is predicted by Country Land and Business Association president Mark Hudson. In his New Year message, Mr Hudson said the countryside will face a turbulent ride in 2004... And then there is hunting, with the Government apparently uncommitted while the two sides are as polarised as ever.... "We shall continue to keep a close watch on field sports and, while no Hunting Bill was mentioned in the Queen's Speech, there are other routes by which such a bill could be re-introduced," said Mr Hudson. "As importantly, we must continue to promote the Code of Good Shooting Practice to protect this other important field sport." (story)

Exeter Express & Echo 29.12.03 BILL ONLY PROPOSES TO OUTLAW SOME HUNTING The Countryside Alliance has again attacked Exeter MP Ben Bradshaw for voting to ban hunting, Echo, December 19. However, it is not generally understood that the Hunting Bill, now before Parliament, does not ban all hunting. The Bill bans only hunting wild mammals with dogs for sport.... John Phelps, Argyll Road, Exeter (letter)

Irish Examiner 29.12.03 The right course - THE Irish Council Against Blood Sports is delighted at the news that hare coursing will be banned in Northern Ireland for at least 12 months from January 19, 2004... John Fitzgerald, Lr Coyne Street, Callan, Co Kilkenny. (letter)

Western Daily Press 29.12.03 CONSTITUTIONAL MOVE SUBMITS OUR SOVEREIGNTY TO BRUSSELLS - With the relatively unimportant issue only affecting the human rights of a minority, namely to ban fox hunting, still unresolved, it's time the public concentrated on the most vital issue to everyone in the UK. This is the threat coming from Tony Blair to sign up to an EU constitution to submit our sovereignty to Brussels without holding a referendum.... Mr R Tanner, Tetbury, Gloucestershire (letter)

Northern Times 31.12.03 Decline of poaching partly to blame for deer encroachment - On 12th December I found myself reading an article in The Northern Times entitled "Deer, deer, deer - a menace on the road and a nuisance in the garden… I would like to ask why the owner responsible for the stag in the Rev John Mann's garden had not taken some kind of action - i. e. cull the deer in question… Deer are easily educated in the fact that, if someone is shooting at them, then just maybe this is not such a good place to be eating… In years gone past, that deer would never have made it into Kinlochbervie, as someone would have had it for the pot or sold…. Donald Bain (semi-retired deerstalker), 7 Gilmour Crescent, Bonar Bridge. (letter)

Dundee Courier 29.12.03 Ban on game feeding might be the solution - On the face of it, the idea that wild game must be tested before consumption seems ludicrous... In view of the widespread rearing of game birds and distributing these in unnaturally large numbers, artificial feeding is commonplace in an attempt to keep the game in chosen locations. Rat infestation around such feeding areas can be an unfortunate consequence.... A total ban, or strict control, on game feeding might be an obvious solution. Tom Gray. West Park, Braco. (letter)

Cambridge Evening News 29.12.03 Monkeying around - My ex-laboratory beagle recently visited the beach, where he found a rotten cuttlefish, which had turned black. He ate it... We were told for years that beagles were good models for what is poisonous for humans. I laugh at this, knowing the range of rotten rubbish my dog eats when he can - and never feels unwell afterwards.... Christopher Michaelson Stop Primate Experiments at Cambridge PO Box 6712 Northampton (letter)

Western Daily Press 29.12.03 DO WE ALL CARRY THIS FLESH BUG? With reference to the MRSA "flesh eating bug", now said to have spread to companion animals, my guess is that the bug is naturally inherent in all mammals, human and animal.... To meat eaters I say, what goes round comes round. The decomposing flesh you eat may yet get its revenge. Name and address supplied (letter)

Exeter Express & Echo 29.12.03 HEARTBREAKING TO HEAR STORIES OF ANIMAL ABUSE Although heartily sickened by the plight of that poor swan on Exeter Quay which was killed so barbarically, Echo, December 16, if readers went into any animal shelter they would hear the histories of many animals which have been abused or neglected by humans.... Mrs Jennie Cook, Tale Common Head, Honiton (letter)

Sunday Times 28.12.03 Hunt? I can't bloody ride - A fleeting party chat sent James Delingpole, dedicated townie, on the most terrifying, thrilling and illusion-shattering day of his life... (page 1) (page 2)
Times 11.11.03 All dressed up for a stag party BY JAMES DELINGPOLE - A hunt on Exmoor begins with a recce off Bond Street - MY LOVE of dressing up is in a large way to blame for two of the maddest stunts I have done this year: going hunting on Exmoor with the Devon and Somerset Staghounds, and re-enacting the Battle of Naseby with the Sealed Knot. Actually, I haven’t yet done my hunting, and may still chicken out because galloping across Exmoor when you can’t ride that well is a hairy prospect. But I kind of hope I don’t, because then I’ll be able to tell my grandchildren that I had a go before it got banned.... (story)

Independent on Sunday 28.12.03 Professor Colin Blakemore: The science of defiance - He is the animal rights movement's No 1 hate figure, and now the Government has fought shy of granting him the knighthood that usually goes with his top job. But within the medical research community, he is less a pariah than a pioneer, zealous in his defence of controversial methods By Tim Luckhurst (story)

Observer 28.12.03 No to vivisection - Professor Colin Blakemore is critical of the Government for leaving him off the New Year honours list, threatening to quit unless the Government backs animal experimenters. Throughout history scientists and medical professionals critical of vivisection have been sidelined, their careers and reputations at risk... S. Edwards, Dubai (letter)

Hull Daily Mail 27.12.03 HUNTING GETS LOW PRIORITY - Only two per cent of people believe fox-hunting should be a Government priority, according to a new survey... (story)

Dorset Daily Echo 27.12.03 Hunt rides on despite protests - IT WAS a spectacle of horses, dogs and riders that they thought they would never see again on a Boxing Day. Last year members of the Portman Hunt feared that new anti-hunting legislation would deprive them of their annual Christmas outing. But with the legislation falling through earlier this year members of the Dorset hunt were able to come out in style on Friday, starting off as usual from the Crown Hotel in Blandford.... (story in archive)

Huddersfield Daily Examiner 27.12.03 Hunters defiant on their big day - HUNT supporters were out in the Huddersfield area yesterday for the traditional Boxing Day meets. The Rockwood Hunt rode out in Upper Denby, watched by dozens of supporters. And Colne Valley Beagles took to the fields and lanes across Scammonden - in what could be a defining moment for country sports.... (story)

The Sentinel 27.12.03 YOU'RE OUT-FOXED SAY ANTI-HUNT PROTESTERS - Anti-hunt protesters yesterday staged a demonstration at what could be one of the region's last Boxing Day hunts. Around 30 demonstrators turned out to stage their protest at the Cheshire Forest Hunt at Lach Dennis, near Northwich... At Lach Dennis, up to 40 hunters were on horseback, followed by an estimated 150 on foot... In Staffordshire, more than 2,000 people showed their support for hunting by attending events at Woore, near Newcastle, Blithfield Hall, Abbots Bromley, and in the Staffordshire Moorlands at Dale Farm, Cauldon, near Leek.... About 20 riders, followed by 200 people on foot, took part in the Staffordshire Moorlands Hunt..... Around 450 people turned out in force to see 30 huntsmen on horseback at the Meynell and South Staffordshire hunt at Blithfield Hall near Abbots Bromley.... (story)

Gloucester Citizen 27.12.03 'BOXING DAY HUNTING WILL GO ON FOR YEARS' Thousands of defiant hunt supporters took to the countryside across the South West for what could be the last annual Boxing Day hunts.... On a proposed ban, Ian Farquhar, joint master of the Beaufort Hunt in Gloucestershire, said: "We will still be hunting on Boxing Day for years to come...." At the Avon Vale Hunt in Lacock, Wiltshire, demonstrators were out in force, waving banners proclaiming "out foxed, out dated and out voted"... One of the biggest meets of the day was at Cirencester Park where about 6,000 supporters turned up for the Vale of White Horse Hunt (story)

Guardian 27.12.03 This year, the day belonged to the hounds - Martin Wainwright - It was a rash thing to do with 27 foxhounds lolloping past, not to mention a knot of police officers nearby, but the man, one of a crew-cut group of followers of the Badsworth hunt, had been riled by a pavement full of "antis" and wanted to provoke them.... "Typical of that sort of follower," said Eric Beechey, the former head, a member of the League Against Cruel Sports... "We're in good heart," said one of the Badsworth's seven masters, Peter Turland... Denise Geddes-McClure said: "There's no need for the hunt. Foxes limit their own population... (story)

Guardian 27.12.03 New row on legality of forcing hunt ban - Sarah Hall, political correspondent - A row broke out yesterday over whether the government will be able to use the Parliament Act to push through a ban on hunting. As the biggest day in the foxhunting calendar - the Boxing Day hunt - began, two former cabinet secretaries and one Labour-appointed peer came out to argue that, politically, the act should not be used on a free vote. It has been used only three times since being introduced in 1949 .Their views were roundly attacked by Labour backbenchers who said the act was designed precisely for instances like these when the will of the elected House of Commons should prevail over that of the appointed House of Lords.... (story)

Telegraph 27.12.03 Hunts claim a record turnout by supporters - Hunt supporters claimed a moral victory yesterday with an unprecedented turnout for the Boxing Day meets and little or no disruption from protesters.... Richard de Prez, the master-in-charge of the Cheshire Forest Hunt, said: "Protesters have been saying that this will be our last hunt for the past six or seven years and we are still here.".... More than 100 protesters were at Wentbridge, West Yorks, but they were outnumbered by more than 1,000 supporters of the Badsworth Fox Hounds.... Supporters at the Old Surrey Burstow and West Kent Hunt were more philosophical about the future... (story)

Times 27.12.03 Hunts and protesters move in for the kill BY STEVE BIRD - As the Boxing Day meet passes, both sides of the debate are squaring up for a legal battle... The Countryside Alliance claimed that 275,000 supporters had turned up at about 350 meets, an increase of 10 per cent compared with last year... Hunt supporters have raised a £2 million fighting fund in the hope that the courts will be able to block any chance of such a new law.... Ian Harris, 66, who rides with the Tiverton Foxhounds and Culmstock Minkhounds in Devon, was overwhelmed with cash after placing an advertisement in Horse and Hound magazine in the summer.... (story)

Times 27.12.03 Field sports vicar tells packs not to count their blessings BY VALERIE ELLIOTT, COUNTRYSIDE EDITOR - AS HUNTSMEN gathered yesterday for their traditional Boxing Day meets, the co-ordinator of a growing group of pro-hunting clergymen warned hunt supporters they should not claim “God was on their side”. The Rev Pip Martin, 45, vicar at St James’s Church in Alderholt, Dorset, spoke out because he is uncomfortable that some hunts ask local clergymen to bless their meets. Mr Martin, who is a whipper-in with the Wiltshire and Infantry Beagles and co-ordinator of Clergymen for Field Sports, a 60-strong non-denominational group, said he was concerned that hunt blessings could be misconstrued.... (story)

Independent 27.12.03 Pro-hunting groups turn out in force for what could be the last Boxing Day meetings By Terry Kirby, Chief Reporter - Countryside groups claimed more than 275,000 people turned out yesterday to support the biggest day in the hunting calendar, amid fears it could be one of the last before the rural tradition is banned... Among the biggest crowds were 6,000 at Cirencester Park at the meet of the Vale of the White Horse, 5,000 with the Beaufort Hunt at Badminton and 3,000 at Pershore, near Evesham to support the Croome and west Warwickshire hunt. By contrast, about 400 demonstrators were present at the sampled meetings.... (story)

Western Morning News 27.12.03 HUNT DEFIANCE - Defiant Westcountry hunt supporters turned out in force yesterday to back traditional Boxing Day meets as a new poll revealed dwindling public enthusiasm for a ban on the sport.... The tiny Somerset village of Exford was taken over by hunt supporters thronging the roads and grass verges. And there was a mood of optimism as the Devon and Somerset Staghounds gathered in the courtyard of the White Horse Hotel yesterday morning.... Four Burrow joint master Paul Hancock said they had never had so much support.... Ivor Annetts, coordinator of the Mid Devon League Against Cruel Sports support group, said people were anxious to have the issue settled once and for all. He was among a group of banner-waving demonstrators showing their opposition to hunting at the Spooners and West Dartmoor meet in Tavistock... (story)

Western Morning News 27.12.03 BLAIR AMBIVALENCE LEAVES HUNT BAN IN DOUBT The traditional Boxing Day hunting scenes were played out across the Westcountry again yesterday as if nothing had changed. But as London Editor Jason Groves reports, next year could be the last for the controversial country pursuit Debate: Anti-hunt protester Gary Butlin confronts huntsmen at the Tavistock Hunt... If the dogged opponents of hunting finally get their way then the Hunting Bill will be brought back at some point next year and forced onto the statute books using the Parliament Act in November.... (story)

Western Morning News 27.12.03 HUNTING STALWARTS DETERMINED TO PRESERVE FUTURE OF SPORT - As the Devon and Somerset Staghounds prepared to ride out across Exmoor yesterday, two elderly gentleman voiced their utter determination to fight any Government ban of the sport. For John Heywood, the tradition of hunting is in his blood - having been exposed to it all his life.... Meanwhile, dressed smartly with his official Devon and Somerset Staghounds tie, 86-year-old retired farmer Arthur Webber from Cutcombe near Minehead, said he proudly supported hunting... (story)

Western Morning News 27.12.03 PUT UP - OR SHUT UP, MR BLAIR - Like cold turkey, leftover Christmas pudding and wilting mistletoe, the debate over the future of hunting with hounds has become a Boxing Day tradition... One thing is clear; this uncertainty cannot go on... It's time New Labour either finished what they started or admitted they were wrong and abandoned this legislation altogether. In 2004, so far as hunting is concerned, Tony Blair had better put up - or shut up. Western Daily Press 27.12.03 SHOW OF STRENGTH - Thousands of defiant hunt supporters were out in force yesterday - coming face-to-face with their anti-bloodsports adversaries for what could be the last stand in the hunting debate.... Feelings were running high at the Avon Vale Hunt in Lacock, near Chippenham, Wiltshire, where placards and banners were angrily waved on both sides.... (story)

Western Daily Press 27.12.03 THE BOXING DAY MEET (AS TRADITIONAL AS COLD TURKEY, THE PROS AND ANTIS MAKE THEIR POINT) - Defiant hunt supporters took to the West countryside in their thousands yesterday to make a determined stand against threats to their sport... At the Avon Vale Hunt in Lacock, near Chippenham, Wiltshire, demonstrators were out in force, waving banners proclaiming "out foxed, out dated and out voted". They jeered as the riders, who included North Wiltshire MP and Tory Rural Affairs spokesman James Gray, set off. But they were greatly outnumbered by supporters, who met the animal rights activists head on and displayed their own pro-hunt placards.... On a proposed ban, Ian Farquhar, joint master of the Beaufort Hunt in Gloucestershire, told the Western Daily Press yesterday: "We will still be hunting on Boxing Day for years to come.... One of the biggest meets of the day was at nearby Cirencester Park where about 6,000 supporters turned up for the Vale of White Horse Hunt.... As well as the Avon Vale Hunt, in Lacock, Wiltshire, the League Against Cruel Sports targeted the Minehead Harriers in Somerset, the West Dartmoor Foxhounds in Devon and the Portman Hunt in Blandford, Dorset.... (story)

Exeter Express & Echo 27.12.03 COUNTRYSIDE BY ROB SIMS - Hunt leaders and supporters sent a defiant message to the Government yesterday and pledged to continue the sport - whether or not politicians decide to ban it. Hundreds of well-wishers gathered to meet the East Devon Hunt for its traditional Boxing Day meet at Woodbury Common.... (story)

Yorkshire Post 27.12.03 Crowds out to support hunts - It is the biggest day in the hunting calendar but few Boxing Day hunts have come at such a crucial time, or attracted such crowds. Dave Mark reports.... They braved the bitter temperatures to show their support for the Holderness Hunt at a critical time that could yet see hunting with dogs banned.... Elsewhere in North Yorkshire large crowds turned out to see the Hurworth meet at Northallerton, the Cleveland at Great Ayton, York and Ainsty (North) at Boroughbridge, the York and Ainsty (South) at Easingwold, the Bedale in Bedale Market Place and Wensleydale Foxhounds at Hawes. Also out were Catterick Beagles, based at Catt- erick Garrison, who hunt over the military training area.... (story)

Shropshire Star 27.12.03 Crowds out to wave off hunt riders - Record crowds took part in Shropshire's traditional Boxing Day meets in a huge show of support and solidarity for hunting.... In Ludlow, more than 100 riders turned out for the South Shropshire Hunt's annual event and hundreds of people gathered in the town's historic castle to wave them off. And hundreds packed into Newport High Street to see the Albrighton Hunt set off followed by the traditional carriage parade. More than 70 riders turned out for the Wheatland Hunt's traditional Boxing Day event... (story)

Leicester Mercury 27.12.03 CROWDS SHOW THEIR SUPPORT FOR HUNTS BY TIM HEALY AND LYNDSAY EMMETT - Thousands of people turned out for Boxing Day hunts in a show of defiance to those who hope to ban the sport. Quorn, Atherstone and Fernie hunts reported bigger crowds than last year at the traditional Christmas meets... (story)

Leicester Mercury 27.12.03 'RECORD NUMBERS TURN OUT' Hunt supporters claimed a record 275,000 people turned out across Britain for the biggest day in the fox-hunting calendar.... (story)

Newcastle Journal 27.12.03 Children caught in hunt row - Hunt leaders yesterday laughed off claims that they were damaging children by allowing youngsters to take part in the traditional Boxing Day fox hunts... Many of the handfuls of protesters, who turned up at several of the 12 hunting meets held in Northumberland and County Durham yesterday had hoped last year's Boxing Day hunts would be the last to be held.... Banners waved at the 80-plus members of the Braes of Derwent hunt as they left the car park of the Queen's Head pub in Lanchester, near Consett, claimed that exposing youngsters to the "barbarity" of fox-hunting made them immune to the suffering caused to animals. Mary Wood, who has protested at various fox-hunts across the region for the past seven years, said: "Instead of waiting until youngsters are old enough to make up their own mind, they take children out riding with the hunts from an early age to make them immune to the killing..." (story)

Northern Echo 27.12.03 Peaceful protest as hunts ride again by Gavin Engelbrecht & Hannah Chapman - THOUSANDS of enthusiasts throughout the North-East and North Yorkshire turned out in a show of strength yesterday to mark what could be the last annual Boxing Day hunts... Deep divisions between supporters and opponents were reflected at the Braes of Derwent Hunt, in Lanchester, County Durham, where a small group of anti-hunt demonstrators staged a peaceful protest.... In Northallerton, North Yorkshire, hundreds of people lined the streets to watch the annual meeting of the Hurworth Hunt, outside the Golden Lion, in High Street.... (story in archive)

Grimsby Telegraph 27.12.03 HUNT ENJOYED BY MANY DESPITE UNCERTAIN FUTURE - HANNAH KENNARD AND TIM JAYS The traditional Boxing Day hunts were enjoyed by many in Lincolnshire, in what was described as a positive year for the countryside sport - despite the uncertainty over its future... At Brocklesby, large crowds lined the point-to-point course to watch the horses and hounds parade.... Master of the Hunt at South Wold, Daniel Crane, even urged members of the gathered crowds in Louth to become more involved.... (story)

Cumberland News & Star 27.12.03 HUNT GOES ON By Kat Ferguson - HUNTERS carried out their annual Boxing Day meetings with a renewed air of optimism yesterday as hundreds vowed to fight any ban on foxhunting to the bitter end... Master of the Cumberland Farmers Foxhounds hunt at Welton, Peter Wybergh, posed with his horse Penny before sounding the horn to start the hunt.... (story)

Cumberland News & Star 27.12.03 BAN HUNT OR LEAVE IT ALONE - Email Jullian Whittle - HUNT supporters were out in force yesterday for the annual Boxing Day meets. December 26 is the red letter day of the hunting calendar... We are not going to take sides in the argument over hunting.... The Government says it wants a ban but it has chosen not to reintroduce its Hunting Bill in the current session of Parliament. What sort of mixed message does that send out – not least to those who depend on hunting for their livelihood? Our legislators should stop dithering. Either ban hunting or leave the hunting fraternity to get on with it. (story)

Hull Daily Mail 27.12.03 'THEY'LL NEVER KILL OFF HUNTS' - Fox-hunting stalwart Robert Howarth has pledged to keep his favourite pastime "alive for many years to come" in a renewed cry of defiance. The huntsman used the Boxing Day meet of Holderness Hunt on Beverley's Westwood to issue a rallying call to preserve the much-loved festive tradition... A crowd of around 400 gathered on the pasture land to watch 40 horses and 25 hounds gather for the chase. A similar-sized crowd gathered at the Middleton Hunt in Driffield.... (story)

Scotsman 27.12.03 Boxing Day hunt on its last legs? ALISON HARDIE POLITICAL CORRESPONDENT - TRADITIONAL Boxing Day fox hunts took place across England yesterday for possibly the last time before they are outlawed by the government.... (story)

Bristol Evening Post 27.12.03 SUPPORT FOR BOXING DAY HUNT - Thousands of supporters turned out for the traditional Boxing Day meets of the Beaufort and Berkeley Hunts. Protesters were noticeable by their absence at the Duke of Beaufort's Worcester Lodge estate in Didmarton yesterday, where the Countryside Alliance put the number of supporters at 5,000. And in Thornbury High Street where the Berkeley Hunt met, two protesters waving a banner were lost in a sea of supporters.... (story)

Oxford Mail 27.12.03 Hundreds join the hunts by Suzanne Huband - Rain failed to dampen the spirits of hundreds of hunt supporters who turned out to watch the county's traditional Boxing Day meets. People in the centre of Chipping Norton gathered to watch the meet of the Heythrop Hunt... There were about 150 mounted followers and several hundred people on foot.... In the south of the county, 93 riders joined the Old Berkshire Hunt. The huntsmen and women, supported by 192 cars containing followers, gathered at the Hunt Kennels near Faringdon at 11am, and rode through Little Coxwell, Longcot and Shellingford, led by their field master, Viscount William Astor.... Meanwhile anti-hunt campaigner Penny Little dropped into Prime Minister Tony Blair's country home with a surprise `gift'.... They handed a top hat and riding crop, together with a badge naming Mr Blair as the master of the Chequers poodle hounds as well as a video of the Bicester and Whaddon Chase Hunt, to policemen on the gate at Chequers.... (story in archive)

Irish Independent 27.12.03 Parents criticised for taking children to see chase - AN organiser of the country's largest anti-hunting protest yesterday hit out at parents who bring young children to the hunt. Bernie Wright of the Association of Hunt Saboteurs (AHS) said that teaching children cruelty to animals at an early age could lead some of them to abuse people later in life... Ms Wright - who joined between 40 and 50 protesters at the 100-year-old Waterford Foxhounds hunt - predicted that if the fox hunting ban was implemented in Britain, then Ireland would follow suit... Meanwhile, 1,000 people gathered in Kells to support the 140-strong Meath Hunt. Master of Hounds John Henry said conditions were perfect - there were no injuries and no fox was caught or killed. There were no protesters at the event. (story)

Evening News 27.12.03 Jeers and scuffles at hare hunt - NICK PARKER - A DEFIANT band of protesters ignored a jeering crowd to voice their disgust at the traditional Boxing Day hunts across Norfolk. A handful of anti-hunt campaigners gathered at Wymondham market place as the Dunston Harriers rode out on their annual Boxing Day hare hunt.... Anne Jones, 53, a teacher from Norwich, is a member of lobby group Saving Animals from Exploitation. She said: "It's barbaric and ruthless...." Deborah Stephens, of the League Against Cruel Sports, said: "It's not a sport, it's killing for the sake of killing. It's just gutless."... A crowd of about 200 people who had gathered to watch the start of the hunt tried to drown out the noise of the protest.... (story)

Eastern Daily Press 27.12.03 Timeless hunts met by timeless protests - RICHARD BATSON - Snorting horses and howling hounds set off against the backdrop of a country house in a chocolate box Boxing Day scene.... At Sennowe Park, near Fakenham, a large crowd watched a gathering of the North Norfolk Harriers, where more than 40 riders saddled up.... At Sennowe Park, near Fakenham, a large crowd watched a gathering of the North Norfolk Harriers, where more than 40 riders saddled up... It was a case of "they're off" at Fakenham Racecourse, which was the venue for the West Norfolk Foxhounds, and where a handful of protesters were outnumbered by hundreds of supporters.... A small but vociferous band of protesters chanted anti-hunt slogans amid a 200 crowd of cheering supporters at the Dunston Harriers's meet in Wymondham Market Place.... Protester Linda Majzlik, of Norwich-based Saving Animals from Exploitation, said they deplored any form of cruelty to animals and wanted hunting banned as quickly as possible... (story)

Ipswich Evening Star 27.12.03 Boxing Day hunting comes to town - AFTER slow run-up to Christmas, retailers were today hoping that the early signs of sales fever should give them a much-needed boost.... Elsewhere in the county hunting of a more traditional kind was taking place. Horses and hounds gathered at Holbecks Park in Hadleigh, and at Hawkstead Place Farm near Bury St Edmunds.... (story)

Southern Daily Echo 27.12.03 Canine flu ends hunt by Tom Husband - A CANINE flu epidemic forced a Hampshire hunt to call off its prestigious annual New Forest Boxing Day meeting. The New Forest Hounds abandoned this year's Brockenhurst hunt after several of the foxhounds caught kennel cough.... (story in archive)

East Anglian Daily Times 27.12.03 Pro-hunt lobby sends message of defiance BY JONATHAN BARNES - HUNT supporters in East Anglia have spelt out their determination to keep the country pursuit alive amid the continuing threat of a Government ban... Liz Mort, eastern region director of the Countryside Alliance, who joined the start of the Essex and Suffolk Foxhounds hunt at Hadleigh, pledged to fight any Government moves to outlaw the field sport.... Nationwide, the Countryside Alliance claimed it had attracted more than 275,000 hunt supporters, who outnumbered protesters by 800-1... Hundreds of people braved the bitter Boxing Day weather to take part in the Suffolk Hunt at Hawstead, near Bury St Edmunds.... A crowd of several hundred people gathered in the centre of Bungay for the traditional Boxing Day meet of the Waveney Harriers.... The meet of the Essex Farmers and Union was held outside the Maldon district for the first time in more than 60 years.... (story)

Birmingham Post 27.12.03 Thousands turn out to support hunts By Sarah Probert, Birmingham Post - Defiant and jubilant after a year of political pressure, hunts in the West Midlands were optimistic yesterday their sport would continue in the face of mounting fears that a Government ban on hunting with hounds will reach the statute books within a year. Meets across the region saw record turnouts yesterday, with 1,700 people gathering at the Warwickshire Hunt and 1,500 at Droitwich, according to lobby group the Countryside Alliance.... Peter Swann, master of the Albrighton and Woodland Hunt, who was not riding yesterday after breaking his arm in a hunting accident, said there was hope hunting will continue for another year after the Hunting Bill was left out of the Queen’s Speech.... (story)

Worcester Evening News 27.12.03 Cheers and jeers at hunting meet clash SCORES of anti-hunt supporters hurled abuse as police kept control at a tense Boxing Day hunt in Droitwich.... As riders from the Worcestershire Hunt entered the grounds of the Raven Hotel, off St Andrew's Street, at around 10.30am yesterday, they received a barrage of abuse from the between 40 and 50 anti-hunt protesters who had congregated opposite the entrance.... One protester screamed: "I hope you fall off your horse and break your neck," while supporters responded by thanking the protesters for coming and inviting them to return next year... Animal rights campaigner Janet Higgins travelled from Rugby, Warwickshire, to protest... (story in archive)

Newcastle Journal 27.12.03 Help to build partridge families By Jennifer Mackenzie, The Journal - A survey has shown the grey partridges of Wark Farm near Cornhill-on-Tweed, Northumberland, are on the increase as a result of a range of conservation techniques. Farmer Jennifer Lovett has joined the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) and The Game Conservancy Trust to help the grey partridges - a priority species due to their steep population decline - and other wild birds, using a combination of careful land and game management techniques.... (story)

Western Daily Press 27.12.03 ANIMAL TRAGIC - It was so good to read that a charity has stepped in to save the lions in Japan. I can only hope that bears in Japan will soon be rescued and that this sick and barbaric way of keeping animals will be stopped. J Swan Westbury Wiltshire (letter)

Scotsman 26.12.03 Hunt Attracts 275,000 Supporters, Says Countryside Alliance Fox-hunting supporters and opponents were out in force today on what could be the last Boxing Day hunt before a Government clamp down... Hunt supporters remained defiant, with the Master-In-Charge of the Cheshire Forest Hunt, Richard de Prez, saying: “Protesters have been saying that this will be our last hunt for the last six or seven years and we are still here.”... Animal rights activists conceded that they were outnumbered but said they would not stop until hunting had been banned. It was a warning which appeared to have been taken seriously by supporters at the Old Surrey Burstow and West Kent Hunt.... Meanwhile the anti-hunt group Protect Our Wild Animals took their protest to the Prime Minister himself, at his country house Chequers.... (story)

ONLY 2% THINK HUNT BAN IS PRIORITY
BBC News Online 26.12.03 Put NHS before hunting, poll says - Only one out of every 50 Britons think banning or curtailing hunting with dogs should be the government's priority, a poll of 1,000 people suggests. The Countryside Alliance survey found that most people saw the NHS as the top issue facing ministers..... (story)
Telegraph 26.12.03 Public give Bill low priority By Graham Tibbetts - Only two per cent of people believe foxhunting should be a Government priority, according to a poll released today. Of those questioned, just one in 50 said that Labour should concentrate on introducing the hunting Bill.... (story)
Scotsman 26.12.03 Foxhunting Not A Public Priority - Poll - Only 2% of people believe that foxhunting should be a government priority, according to a poll released today. An NOP poll commissioned by pro-hunting group the Countryside Alliance found that the NHS was considered the most important issue for the Government to tackle (46%)... (story)
icScotland 26.12.03 Hunting not a public priority - poll - Only 2% of people believe that foxhunting should be a government priority, according to a poll. An NOP poll commissioned by pro-hunting group the Countryside Alliance found that the NHS was considered the most important issue for the Government to tackle (46%)... (story)
Reading Chronicle 26.12.03 Hunting not a public priority - poll - Only 2% of people believe that foxhunting should be a government priority, according to a poll.... (story)
Ananova 26.12.03 Foxhunting not a public priority - Only 2% of people believe that foxhunting should be a government priority, according to a new poll.... (story)

Times 26.12.03 Ex-Cabinet Secretaries warn against hunt ban BY VALERIE ELLIOTT - TWO former Cabinet Secretaries warn the Government today that it should not use the Parliament Act to force through a ban on hunting. Lord Armstrong of Ilminster and Lord Wilson of Dinton make public their views as hunts across the country gather for the traditional Boxing Day meet... One of Tony Blair’s appointed peers, Lord Grabiner, QC, has also intervened in the debate and accused anti-hunt Labour MPs of “class-bashing”. The warning comes as a poll of 1,000 people, commissioned by the pro-hunting group the Countryside Alliance, claims that only 2 per cent of people believe that a ban should be a government priority.... (story)

Independent 26.12.03 Hunts open up as Bill bids to widen ban on animal cruelty By Marie Woolf and Andrew Grice - Supporters of licensed hunts are to revive the Parliamentary battle over fox hunting by bringing in a Bill to outlaw all cruelty to animals. The move was announced as a record number of hunt enthusiasts were expected to turn out for today's Boxing Day meetings, in a show of strength against a possible ban.... An NOP survey, commissioned by the pro-hunt Countryside Alliance, found that only 2 per cent of people believed hunting the most important issue for the Government.... Julie Nelson, a riding school instructor from Hull who hunts with the Hunsley Beacon Beagles in Yorkshire, said "the doors would be thrown wide open" to the public today.... (story)

Telegraph 26.12.03 Cruelty ban plan to test anti-hunt MPs - Opponents of a hunting ban will today publish proposals to ban all cruelty to wild mammals in an attempt to "flush out" Labour MPs who want to abolish the sport but are not prepared to outlaw other ways of controlling foxes. Lord Donoughue, the former Labour minister, and Lembit Opik, the Liberal Democrat MP, will introduce a private Bill to test the motives of anti-hunt MPs when Parliament returns in January... (story)

Telegraph 26.12.03 The hunt will meet for years to come By Nick Herbert - In the 35 years that I have been watching television, every Boxing Day news broadcast I can remember has featured a shivering reporter picking his or her way through the mud and proclaiming the days of hunting to be numbered. We are all used to a Christmas schedule that relies heavily on repeats, but it's time to challenge this annual canard.... The Chief Constable of Suffolk has issued a warning, on behalf of the Association of Chief Police Officers, about the practicality of enforcing a ban. "Good laws," he observed "are largely self-policing", but this would be impossible in the case of hunting because "those who regard themselves as the greatest supporters of law and order will overnight be turned into criminals".... (story)

Telegraph 26.12.03 Fox Dundee - If Brett Mann had time to think before being eaten by a crocodile earlier this week, he might have reflected on the dangers of banning hunting of any kind. Crocodiles have been a protected species in Australia's Northern Territories for more than 30 years and the population has consequently risen tenfold... As Nick Herbert says opposite, the Government is foolishly still contemplating a ban of foxhunting here.... With a bit of luck, nobody would be eaten, though. (story)

Times 26.12.03 Foxhunters and protesters out in force - Fox-hunting supporters and opponents were out in force today on what could be the last Boxing Day hunt before a Government clamp down. Estimates of turnout varied wildly on both sides, with the Countryside Alliance claiming it had attracted more than 275,000 hunt supporters, who outnumbered protesters by 800-1 on the biggest day in the hunting calendar. Animal rights activists, including the League Against Cruel Sports, said thousands of protesters congregated around some 300 locations to hold largely peaceful demonstrations.... (story)

Sky News 26.12.03 BOXING DAY HUNTS BATTLE - Hunt supporters and opponents are expected to be out in force on what could be the last Boxing Day hunt before the Government moves to clamp down on foxhunting... (story)

East Anglian Daily Times 26.12.03 Two sides hopes for hunting's big day THE biggest day of hunting in East Anglia's history is being planned for todaywith thousands of people expected to turn out at the meetings.... David Nunn, who is joint master of the Easton Harriers, which is holding a hunt at Saxtead Green, near Framlingham, said: "We, as countryside people, are going to show them we are not going to give up.... James Buckle, master of the Essex and Suffolk foxhounds, said that the hunt had to be moved to Holbecks Park in Hadleigh this year as so many people wanted to participate.... Thurlow Foxhounds are holding a meet at Great Thurlow Hall today and master of the hunt, Edmund Vestey, said he expected there to be more than 80 people on horseback and several hundred on foot. James Aldous, master of the Suffolk hunt, which is holing its meet at Hawkstead Place Farm, near Bury St Edmunds, said he expected there would be about 350 people at the event with 75 on horses... Essex Foxhounds will also hold a meet at Matching Green Village and De Burgh and North Essex Hare Hounds will be setting off from the Cock Inn at Henham. The meeting of Waveney Harriers will start from Bungay Market Place and the nearby King's Head pub today... (story)

Western Mail 26.12.03 Act of barbarity, or valuable service? Paul Carey, The Western Mail - The master of Carmarthenshire Hunt, 40-year-old Dai Jones, is this morning at the Meidrin Hunt, located between Carmarthen and St Clears.... Ralph Cook, 44, from St Mellons, Cardiff, is chairman of the Wales Alliance Against Cruel Sports. He will be campaigning against hunting today.... (story)

Essex Evening Gazette 26.12.03 Essex: Hunt will be part of largest event ... The Essex Farmers and Union meet is one of a number of hunts across the region which will meet today. And all the hunts are planning to make it the biggest day's hunting in East Anglia's history, according to the Countryside Alliance, with members of the public being encouraged to take part.... (story in archive)

Worcester Evening News 26.12.03 HUNT RIVALS FACE TO FACE ANGRY scenes were expected today at what could be the last-ever Boxing Day hunt in Worcestershire. Between 100 and 200 protesters were heading for Worcestershire Hunt's meet at Droitwich's Raven Hotel, according to Worcester and Birmingham Hunt Saboteurs spokesman Dan Sidley.... But Countryside Alliance spokeswoman Clare Rowson expected at least 20,000 hunt supporters to be out at 33 meets in the West Midlands region, making it a "bigger and better" day than ever.... (story in archive)

Shropshire Star 26.12.03 Boxing Day hunt could be the last - Huntsmen and hounds today gathered across the Shropshire and Mid Wales countryside on what could be the last Boxing Day hunt before the Government moves to clamp down on foxhunting.... Peter Swan, hunt master of the Albrighton Woodland Hunt, said members were looking forward to a successful day.... Riders and hunt supporters were also out in force in north Shropshire today with the North Staffordshire Hunt meeting at Woore, near Market Drayton, and the North Shropshire Hunt meeting at the Albright Hussey, near Shrewsbury.... (story)

Reading Chronicle 26.12.03 Huge turnout for hunts expected - Hunt supporters and opponents were expected to be out in force today on what could be the last Boxing Day hunt... They expect the largest protests in Sussex, Essex and around the Beaufort Hunt in Badminton, South Gloucestershire..... (story)

BBC News Online 26.12.03 Crowds turn out for hunts - Hunt supporters and opponents turned out in force across Wales on Friday for what many thought could be the last Boxing Day hunt.... The Carmarthenshire Hunt, which has been active for more than 70 years, was expecting to attract supporters and protesters when it rode out. Protests were also expected at other meets, including the Banwen Miners' Hunt in Neath and th Tredegar Farmers' Hunt in Bassaleg, near Newport.... In Wales more than 3,000 people have so far signed a declaration pledging they will continue hunting illegally if there is a ban. The Flint and Denbigh Hunt followers say they are prepared for the consequences.... (story)

BBC News Online 26.12.03 Boxing Day hunters defy protests - Hunting supporters say a record number of people have taken part in what could be the last ever Boxing Day meetings.... But anti-hunt protesters renewed calls for a ban at 21 demonstrations on the biggest day in the hunting calendar.... Some 30 demonstrators met riders of the Cheshire Forest Hunt as they gathered at Lach Dennis near Northwich. Dr Jane Evans, 35, a scientist from Cheshire, and a spokeswoman for the League against Cruel Sports, said she was protesting on moral and environmental grounds... But the hunt's master-in-charge, Richard de Prez, said: "Protesters have been saying that this will be our last hunt for the last six or seven years and we are still here."... The largest demonstrations were expected in Sussex, Essex and around the Beaufort Hunt in Badminton, South Gloucestershire. In the village of Penshurst near Tunbridge Wells, half a dozen protesters waved banners at a meeting of the Old Surrey Burstow and West Kent Hunt.... Protester Marian Eastwood, who runs an animal sanctuary near Tunbridge Wells, said: "I do not think many of these people here today will carry on if there is a ban... (story)

BBC News Online 26.12.03 Boxing day hunts organised - Traditional boxing day hunts took place in the two counties on Boxing Day. There were a number of hunts planned with an open invitation for anyone to come along and watch.... (story)

BBC News Online 26.12.03 Hunt protesters visit Tony Blair - Prime Minister Tony Blair was due to be given a late Christmas present on Boxing Day, by anti-hunt campaigners in Oxfordshire. Members of the Protect Our Wild Animals group were taking a video of the Bicester Hunt to the prime minister's country retreat of Chequers.... (story)

BBC News Online 26.12.03 Hunt groups' Boxing Day meet - Pro- and anti-hunt groups from across the South West have been gathering on the highest profile day of the year for the sport.... Ivor Annetts, of the League Against Cruel Sports in the South West, said: "All of the Labour backbench MPs that we speak to have had private assurances from the government that this bill is going to be brought back and forced through into law by the Parliament Act...." However, Guy Morlock, master of the Spooners and West Dartmoor Hunt, which is based in Tavistock, said: "I think it's absolutely safe. The government hasn't got the taste for the fight they will have if they try and ban it, and I think they've realised that...." (story)

BBC News Online 26.12.03 Hunt supporters predict big turnout - Pro-hunting campaigners in Kent have predicted large numbers will attend this year's Boxing Day meets. At least four hunts are taking place in the county, at Wingham, Elham, Tenterden and Penshurst, near Tonbridge.... (story)

BBC News Online 26.12.03 Confidence grows over hunting's future More than a dozen fox hunts have gathered across North Yorkshire for the traditional Boxing Day meets.... Master of the York Ainsty South hunt, Nick Procter, told BBC Radio York that a ban would have a devastating affect on North Yorkshire's countryside in terms of both jobs and wildlife management.... (story)

BBC News Online 26.12.03 Hunt's folk gather for traditional meet - Huntsmen and women from across the West region will be gathering for meets on Friday with no fewer than 10 hunts taking place in Somerset.... (story)

Channel 4 News 26.12.03 Boxing day hunts bring boxing day protests - Huntsmen and their supporters and hunt protesters have taken to the countryside for what might be the last ever Boxing Day hunts... Master-In-Charge of the Cheshire Forest Hunt, Richard de Prez, was defiant about the possibility of a ban... Supporters at the Old Surrey Burstow and West Kent Hunt were philosophical about the future.... Meanwhile anti-hunt group, Protect Our Wild Animals, is planning a Christmas gift to the Prime Minister at Chequers. Supporters, dressed as foxes, will hand over a top hat, hunting crop and badge bearing the words, "Master of the Chequers Poodlehounds". (story)

Hexham Courant 26.12.03 HUNT SUPPORTERS URGED TO MAKE BOXING DAY ONE TO REMEMBER - THE Countryside Alliance is urging Tynedale hunting supporters to take part in Boxing Day meets in a bid to make it the biggest day's hunting in history... (story)

Worcester Evening News 26.12.03 Hunting ban would be an easy law to enforce - I BECOME extremely annoyed when I read the excuse if a law was introduced it would be difficult to enforce.... According to Countryside Alliance figures, 41 per cent oppose hunting. Surely then, if they did meet, someone would report them? JOHN NORWOOD, Kidderminster. (letter in archive)

Staffordshire Newsletter 25.12.03 Animal welfare expert dies on holiday ... Rob Smith, 52, who ran the Gentleshaw Bird of Prey and Wildlife Sanctuary at Fletcher’s Country Garden Centre, died after suffering a heart attack on Saturday in a hotel in Yorkshire. Earlier this year he was awarded the International Fund for Animal Welfare’s (IFAW) Lifetime Dedication Award.... (story)

Hull Daily Mail 24.12.03 HUNT SUPPORTERS TO MAKE A STAND AT BOXING DAY MEETS ACROSS THE REGION - Fox hunters will use the biggest day of their calendar to issue a rallying call to save their pastime. David Taylor reports... up to 3,000 festive revellers are expected to join the Holderness Hunt's showcase event on the famous pastures.... Members of the centuries-old Holderness Hunt have already pledged to continue hunting, even if it is banned. By promising not to comply with any hunting ban, they are effectively agreeing to break the law to continue the country pursuit. Hunt kennelman David Berry said: "That is how passionately people feel about their hunting and we were delighted when the Lords kicked the Bill out...." The Middleton Hunt will also be meeting in Driffield Market Place on Boxing Day.... (story)

Argus 24.12.03 Hunts in line for clash of factions - Hunters and protesters are preparing for what some believe could be their final confrontation at this year's traditional Boxing Day hunts.... The Southdown and Eridge Hunt will meet in High Street, Lewes; the East Sussex and Romney Marsh Hunt in Battle; the Chiddingfold, Leconsfield and Cowdray Hunt at Petworth and the Crawley and Horsham Hunt in Shipley. All meet at 11am... (story)

Cumberland News 24.12.03 HUNTERS HOPE FOR A BOXING DAY BOOST By Julian Whittle - CUMBRIA’S defiant hunting fraternity is expecting a big turnout on Boxing Day, the red-letter day of the hunting calendar.... Simon Hart, chief executive of the pro-hunting Countryside Alliance, predicted that hunt supporters would be out in force.... The Blencathra Foxhounds meets outside the Moot Hall, Keswick, at 10am. The Ullswater meets at Patterdale at 9.30; the Bewcastle at Roweltown at 10; the Cumberland at Uldale at 10; the Cumberland Farmers at Welton at 10.45; the Melbreak at Lorton at 10; and Eskdale and Ennerdale at Eskdale Green at 9.30 (story)

Westmorland Gazette 24.12.03 Fox hunts plan big show of support - BOXING Day fox hunts this year promise to attract more people than ever before as citizens register their support for the outdoor pursuit, according to the Countryside Alliance.... Coniston Foxhounds will be meeting at Market Cross, Ambleside, at 9.30am on Boxing Day.... Other Boxing Day hunts in this area are: North Lonsdale Foxhounds meeting at Crown Inn at High Newton at 9.30am; Lunesdale Foxhounds meeting at the Dalesman Inn, Sedbergh, at 10am; Ulverston Foxhounds meeting at The White Lion, Patterdale, at 9.30am; Blencathra meeting at Market Square, Keswick, at 10am, and Wensleydale Foxhounds meeting at Hawes at 10am.... (story)

Craven Herald 24.12.03 500 expected at Boxing Day hunt - CROWDS of more than 500 are forecast to watch the Pendle Forest and Craven Hunt's Boxing Day meet at Gargrave.... (story in archive)

Western Daily Press 24.12.03 NEW CRUELTY BILL WILL FIRE UP THE ANTI-HUNT BRIGADE A Shock new Bill to ban all cruelty to wild animals is set to be unveiled on Boxing Day and will cause a storm in the well-worn hunting debate, the Western Daily Press can reveal today. The Bill will provide a new twist to the hunting argument - and could provide an escape route for Tony Blair on the thorny hunting issue in next year's Parliament. Even though it has come from the compromise Middle Way Group, the Bill could be used by anti-blood sport groups to force a ban on hunting with dogs - if they can prove in the courts it is more cruel than other pest control methods.... this Bill will leave the specific definition of "excessive cruelty" open to judges' interpretations - and aims to satisfy both sides in the increasingly tense debate.... Lembit Opik MP will introduce it as a Private Members' Bill in the New Year.... But yesterday the League Against Cruel Sports was dismissive of the Bill. Spokesman Anne Holmes said: "We don't need this Bill..." (story)

Batley News 24.12.03 MP vows to pursue ban on hunting with dogs - BATLEY and Spen MP Mike Wood has reiterated his determination to see a ban on hunting with dogs become a reality.... (story)

Telegraph 24.12.03 Pint to pint: Fox and Hounds Inn - Our guide to the best of British pubs. This week, Adam Edwards visits Warwickshire - It can only be time before the League Against Cruel Sports becomes so bovine it will claim passive hunting is dangerous to our health... One of its first victims will be the Fox and Hounds Inn at Great Wolford. Not only will the league consider the pub's title inflammatory (it will be accused of encouraging impressionable drinkers to chase defenceless creatures) but the painting on its sign will also be seen as particularly offensive to New Labour anthropomorphic sensibilities.... (story)

Grimsby Telegraph 24.12.03 TRADITIONAL BOXING DAY HUNTS WILL GO AHEAD - TIM JAYS - Hunts will again take to the fields of Lincolnshire on Boxing Day - despite MPs voting this summer to ban the sport. No protesters are expected to disrupt the meetings of the Brocklesby Hunt or the South Wolds Hunt... (story)
Grimsby Telegraph 24.12.03 GROUP IS WORKING FOR BAN - Founded in 1924, the League Against Cruel Sports maintains a unique approach to the protection of wildlife - combining campaigning with conservation.... (story)

Newcastle Journal 24.12.03 Hunts defiant as dogs ban looms By Robert Brooks, The Journal - Hunt supporters plan a show of defiance for this season's Boxing Day and New Year's Day ride-outs... "We have lived with this threat for some time now, so we're planning to carry on as usual," said Martin Claxton, huntsman with the Duke of Northumberland's Percy Hunt at Alnwick... Among the hunts being staged in Northumberland are the Border Hunt from Otterburn, the College Valley/North Northumberland Hunt at Wooler, Haydon Hunt at Fourstones near Hexham, Morpeth at Meldon Corner, the West Percy at Glanton, Tynedale at Corbridge and the North Tyne at Wark. The South Durham Hunt takes place at Bishopton near Sedgefield, while the Braes of Derwent leaves from Lanchester and the Cleveland Hunt is run from Great Ayton. (story)

CAMPAIGN TO SUE ANTI HUNT GROUPS FOR SLANDER
Western Morning News 24.12.03 HUNT SUPPORTER SAYS OPPONENETS THREATENED TO 'TORCH' HOME - A hunt follower preparing to take legal action against those who have accused him of cruelty claimed yesterday that he had been warned his house and dogs could be "torched".... Mr Harris, who rides with the Tiverton Foxhounds and Culmstock Minkhounds, plans to take action against four nationally known anti-hunting figures (story)
Western Morning News 23.12.03 ANTI-HUNT GROUPS 'WILL BE SUED IN NEW YEAR' - A Westcountry huntsman has collected a fighting fund of more than £2 million, which he plans to use to take anti-hunt campaigners to court in the New Year. Iain Harris, of Mid Devon, intends to sue for defamation opponents of hunting who describe hunt supporters as "cruel".... Mr Harris, who rides with the Tiverton Foxhounds and the Culmstock Minkhounds, believes that if he is successful, he could undermine the premise on which the Government is seeking to ban or regulate hunting.... (story)
BBC News Online 23.12.03 Huntsman to fight cruel claim - A Devon huntsman has amassed £2m in pledges to bring a legal action against claims that hunting is cruel. Huntsman Iain Harris launched an appeal for funds in the Horse and Hound magazine in the summer... (story
Exeter Express & Echo 8.9.03 IS IT DEFAMATORY TO CALL ANTI-HUNT FRIENDS BIGOTS? I am unable to understand why so much publicity is being given to the threat by Iain Harris, of the Tiverton Foxhounds, to take legal action against anybody who calls him cruel… if I send him £10 perhaps he could ask his lawyer whether it is defamatory for hunters to call me and my anti-hunt friends ignorant, prejudiced bigots? John Phelps, Argyll Road, Exeter (letter)
Exeter Express & Echo 28.8.03 HUNTING FOLLOWER IAIN WON'T BE INTIMIDATED BY JO BARR - A devon hunt follower has vowed not to drop his legal action against people who accuse him of cruelty - despite his allegation that he has received phone calls threatening to burn him and his dogs alive. Iain Harris, who lives near Tiverton, says he has received a number of threatening calls to his home… Mr Harris, a member of the Tiverton Foxhounds and Culmstock Minkhounds, claims the phone calls show the anti-hunt lobby is worried about his legal case which is likely to begin in October… (story)
Sunday Mercury 24.8.03 A fox-hunting campaigner preparing to take legal action against those who accuse him of cruelty has called in the police after receiving telephone threats to his life and property. Iain Harris, 66, who has thousands of pro-hunt supporters backing his initiative after placing an advert in Hare & Hound magazine, said the threatening calls would not deter him… (story)
Crediton, Culm Valley & Tiverton Gazette 19.8.03 HUNT FOLLOWER SAYS HE WILL SUE ON 'CRUELTY' - The man who is to sue anybody who describes hunting as cruel says he has virtually unlimited funds to wage his legal crusade. Iain Harris, 66, who lives in a village a few miles from Tiverton, says more than 7,000 people have already pledged their support for the campaign… Mr Harris, who is a regular follower of Tiverton Foxhounds and Culmstock Minkhounds, says he is taking the action so that his grandchildren do not see him as a cruel man…. (story)
Western Morning News 19.8.03 WILL WE DISCOVER IT'S KIND TO BE CRUEL? - I have been following the correspondence generated by Iain Harris, a supporter of the Tiverton Foxhounds, who objects to being called cruel… If I send ten quid to your correspondent perhaps he could ask his lawyer whether it is defamatory for hunters to describe me and my anti-hunt friends as ignorant prejudiced bigots. John Phelps, Exeter (letter)
Western Daily Press 15.8.03 ANOTHER THREAT BY THE BULLY BRIGADE - So, the hunting tribe plans to sue certain persons if it is said that hunting with dogs is cruel. This is yet another threat from the bullies brigade aimed at silencing justifiable criticism... Ann Richardson Warminster Wiltshire (letter)
Telegraph 14.8.03 Pro-hunter plans to sue antis over accusations of cruelty By Richard Savill - A retired farmer has threatened legal action against organisations and individuals that accuse hunt supporters of being cruel. Iain Harris, 66, who lives near Tiverton, Devon, and has followed packs of foxhounds since he was a child, said he was "sick and tired of being labelled a villain"…. (story)
BBC News Online 12.8.03 Hunt supporter's legal threat - A Devon man is threatening legal action against organisations and individuals who accuse hunt supporters of being cruel… Mr Harris said the target of the legal action would be public figures and organisations who called him and other pro-hunters cruel…. (story)
Western Morning News 12.8.03 - LEGAL FIGHT LOOMS OVER 'CRUEL' HUNTING CLAIMS - NATHAN PYNN - A war of words has erupted between a pro-hunter who wants to sue anti-hunt groups who label him cruel for pursuing the sport. Around 7,000 pro-hunt supporters from across Britain are preparing to take legal action against anyone who accuses them of being cruel. Behind the initiative is 66-year-old Iain Harris, who follows Tiverton Foxhounds and the Culmstock Minkhounds… (story)
Western Daily Press 12.8.03 WE'LL SUE, SAY HUNT FANS - The row over hunting took a bizarre twist last night as thousands of hunt supporters revealed they plan legal action against campaigners who label them 'cruel'. Led by West huntsman Ian Harris, the mass action will see leading anti-hunt campaigners such as MP Tony Banks and the League Against Cruel Sports sued for libel… (story)
(possibly Western Morning News) 11.8.03 ANTI-HUNT GROUPS REACT TO LIBEL THREAT - to court for describing his pastime as "cruel". Iain Harris, 66, from Mid Devon, says he will sue for slander or libel anti-hunt campaigners and MPs who brand hunt supporters "barbaric" or "heartless". He is now urging hunters around the country to copy his campaign. In response Douglas Batchelor, chief executive of the League Against Cruel Sports, reiterated his belief that hunting with dogs is "cruel, barbaric and has no place in modern society"… (story)
(possibly Exeter Express & Echo) 29.7.03 LAW EXPERT GIVES HUNTERS' SLANDER ACTION LITTLE HOPE BY JOHN FLETCHER - An Exeter expert on law says hunt supporters will be wasting their money if they embark on legal actions for slander against people who call their sport cruel. Andrew Tettenborn, Professor of Law at Exeter University, said he did not hold out much hope of success for Iain Harris, who says he is considering suing people who brand hunting as cruel… Mr Harris, 66, who rides with the Tiverton Foxhounds and Culmstock Minkhounds, said 50 people in the region had agreed to join him in taking legal action… Michael Moore, joint master of the East Devon Hunt, supports the action: "I agree with Mr Harris…" Kathy Moyle, of East Budleigh and a member of the Mid Devon League Against Cruel Sports, said: "We would invite Mr Harris to sue. This is a lot of bluster from a dying breed." (story)
Western Morning News 28.7.03 ANTI-HUNTING GROUPS AND MPS TO BE SUED - SAM MARSDEN - Opponents of hunting could be taken to court if they continue to describe the country pursuit as "cruel". A Westcountry man has pledged to sue for slander or libel anti-hunting campaigners and MPs who brand hunt supporters "barbaric" or "heartless". Iain Harris, from Mid Devon, says 50 people in the region have already agreed to join him in taking legal action and he is now urging hunters across the UK to copy his campaign…. Mr Harris, who rides with the Tiverton Foxhounds and the Culmstock Minkhounds, wants to help people around the country organise a series of collective legal actions… Lis Key, spokeswoman for anti-hunting group the International Fund for Animal Welfare, said she was not "unduly worried" about Mr Harris' move… "I used to go foxhunting because I am keen on horse riding - now I look back and regret that I did it. I do not believe that I am a cruel person, but I believe the activity I supported was cruel." (story)

IFAW LETTER
Skegness Standard 24.12.03 Help bring cruel sport to an end - KEVIN HILL AND PETER WHITE Hunt monitors, International Fund for Animal Welfare, c/o 89 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7UD (letter)
Wells Journal 23.12.03 WRITE ABOUT HUNT BAN - Kevin Hill and Peter White, Hunt monitors, International Fund for Animal Welfare, Albert Embankment, London (letter)
York Evening Press 23.12.03 When will foxhunting be banned? - Kevin Hill and Peter White, Hunt monitors, International Fund For Animal Welfare, c/o 89 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7UD. (letter in archive)
Bristol Evening Post 20.12.03 HUNTING WITH DOGS Kevin Hill and Peter White, hunt monitors, International Fund for Animal Welfare, London. (letter)
Exeter Express & Echo 20.12.03 SPIRIT OF GOODWILL IS NOT EXTENDED TO OUR WILDLIFE - Kevin Hill and Peter White International Fund for Animal Welfare, London (letter)
South London Press 19.12.03 We must not just stand by - Kevin Hill and Peter White Hunt monitors International Fund for Animal Welfare London SE1 (letter)
Chester Chronicle 19.12.03 EVEN in the midst of the season of 'goodwill to all men'… KEVIN HILL & PETER WHITE Hunt monitors International Fund for Animal Welfare c/o 89 Albert Embankment London (letter)
Lancashire Evening Telegraph 19.12.03 Lobby for an end to hunting - KEVIN HILL and PETER WHITE, Hunt Monitors, International Fund for Animal Welfare, c/o 89 Albert Embankment, London. (letter in archive)
Western Daily Press 18.12.03 SEASON OF GOODWILL DOES NOT COVER FOXES KILLED BY HOUNDS - Kevin Hill and Peter White International Fund For Animal Welfare (letter)
Milton Keynes News 17.12.03 Hunting spirit - Even in the midst of the season of 'goodwill to all men', that Christmas spirit doesn't extend to the animal kingdom, and on Boxing Day a determined minority will be out hunting foxes and killing them with packs of dogs…. We urge all the many people in favour of a ban to take time over Christmas or the New Year to write to Tony Blair, asking him for a clear indication of when the Hunting Bill will be reintroduced… Kevin Hill and Peter White, Hunt monitors, International Fund for Animal Welfare, c/o 89 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7UD (letter)

Wiltshire Gazette & Herald 24.12.03 Invite to all - Following last week's letter inviting the public to see the reality of fox hunting, we would like to extend the same invitation. Come along with us any Saturday... PEWSEY VALE HUNT SABOTEURS ASSOCIATION (letter in archive)

Western Daily Press 24.12.03 WELL, WHAT A THING TO SAY - So, once again, Prince Charles has put his foot in it with the comments he made in support of foxhunting... I read on the same page of the Western Daily Press that the Quantock stag hounds had invaded the deer sanctuary owned and set up by Sir Paul McCartney in memory of his late wife. This only goes to prove that these hunts have no control over the dogs or are so arrogant that they could not care less... S R Grimes Sharpness Gloucestershire (letter)

Exeter Express & Echo 24.12.03 BRUTALITY IS DISTURBING, WHEREVER IT TAKES PLACE Like most readers, I was deeply saddened by the front-page story and photograph of the dead swan... in the same issue, in Points of view, Michael Moore, of the East Devon Hunt, requested we join him and his cronies killing foxes for fun on Boxing Day.... Every week, foxes, deer and hares are tormented and killed - but that's okay, it's in the name of sport! Mrs Maxine Floyd Salway Close Cullompton (letter)

Irish Examiner 24.12.03 Some of God’s creatures are out of the choir - FOR me, Christmas calls to mind the legends concerning two of God’s creatures — the fox and the robin.... the robin is one of many songbirds targeted by gunmen who flock to Ireland at the behest of tour operators.... And foxhunters uphold the downside of the other legend... recalling evil King Herod's passion for hounding his enemies to exhaustion or death.... John Fitzgerald, Lower Coyne Street, Callan, Co Kilkenny (letter)

Guardian 24.12.03 Animal rights clash - Professor Colin Blakemore, in his protests at being overlooked by the honours system, seems to be trying to take the debate on animal experimentation back 50 years... Mary Midgley, Newcastle upon Tyne
Colin Blakemore deliberately conflates the whole of medical research (indeed, the whole of science) with animal experimentation... Dr Ray Greek, Medical director, Europeans for Medical Advancement (letters)
Guardian 23.12.03 Suffering to primates is caused not only by experiments, but also as a result of the way they are housed, cared for and transported… Replacing primates with humane alternatives should not be beyond the bounds of scientific endeavour in the 21st century. Dr Mark Prescott RSPCA (letter)
Guardian 19.12.03 Animal Tests - Professor Hansen (Letters, December 18) repeats the misunderstanding so common with those opposed to research using animals. New treatments do not rely on animal experiments alone - they are only part of the effort…. Philip Connolly, Director, Coalition for Medical Progress (letter)
Guardian 18.12.03 Bad model - Professor Colin Blakemore claims primate research helped to conquer polio and will help with Aids and brain disorders (Letters, December 15). In fact, "misleading experimental models of the disease in monkeys" delayed the polio vaccine for 30 years… Prof Lawrence Hansen, San Diego School of Medicine, University of California (letter)
Guardan 15.12.03 This is no monkey business - Ray Greek's article questioning the use of primates in medical research (We should give a monkey's, December 5) is wholly misleading… I understand why many people find research on animals, and especially primates, distressing. We all look forward to the day when it is no longer necessary. But if we are to conquer devastating illnesses affecting millions of people worldwide, studies involving monkeys have a vital role to play. Prof Colin Blakemore Chief executive, Medical Research Council (story)
Guardian 5.12.03 We should give a monkey's - The government is backing research on non-human primates for economic reasons, to the detriment of public health - Ray Greek - Experimenting on monkeys in the hope of unlocking the secrets of the human brain is an exercise in futility… (story)

Exeter Express & Echo 24.12.03 SWAN KILLER DESERVES THE TOUGHEST OF PENALTIES - I was very shocked and sickened to hear of the deliberate slaughter of the poor swan on Exeter's Quay... Photos of this swan killer should be posted around the Quay so we will all know who to look out for. As for any do-gooders who feel that would be unfair on the killer, then all I can say to them is: tough.... Linda Thomson, Ullswater Court, Exeter (letter)

RSPCA FAT TURKEY CAMPAIGN
Bucks Free Press 24.12.03 RSPCA chief says turkeys are too fat - AN RSPCA chief has slammed appalling conditions designed to fatten turkeys in the run up to Christmas. John Atter, Eastern regional RSPCA manager, condemned modern breeding techniques which mean millions of turkeys are now grotesquely overweight.... (story)
Sunday Mail 21.12.03 FESTIVE TURKEYS TOO BIG TO HAVE SEX LIFE - A CAMPAIGN to improve the sex life of Christmas turkeys has been launched by the RSPCA. Their scientists claim the birds are now grown to such huge sizes that they are completely stuffed when it comes to doing what comes naturally... (story)
South Wales Evening Post 17.12.03 PLEA OVER TURKEYS Christmas shoppers are being urged to think twice by the RSPCA before buying a huge turkey. The charity is warning people that turkeys are being bred to such grotesque sizes that it could lead to their deaths before they even reach the slaughterhouse… (story)

Telegraph 24.12.03 Animals' plight - The spectacular arrest of Saddam Hussein will not necessarily guarantee a return to normality for the ordinary citzens of Iraq, where life is becoming ever more devastating.... The Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad (Spana) wants to help both the animals and people of Iraq.... Lord Newall, Lord Soulsby of Swaffham Prior, Jeremy Hulme, Dr Derek Knottenbelt, Spana, London WC1 (letter)

Wakefield Express 24.12.03 BE KIND TO TURKEYS PLEA - A GIANT 7ft-tall turkey entertained Christmas shoppers in Wakefield on Saturday to raise awareness of factory-farmed birds... Chris Bonner, of Gordon Street, Agbrigg, handed out leaflets, played the guitar and sang songs with four other members of his band outside Wakefield Cathedral on Saturday lunchtime.... Chris and wife Victoria, also 28, are campaigning against the "cruelty" and "terrible suffering" of factory farm turkeys, and their slogan is 'take the cruelty out of Christmas and increase the peace and goodwill'.... (story)

Southport Visiter 24.12.03 Gospel truth about food - I AGREE with Mary Braithwaite ('Southport Visiter', December 12) that God sent his son Jesus at Christmas and He is 'The Reason for the Season'. But I also believe God created the birds of the air, the fish of the deep and certain animals for the benefit of mankind as a source of food (St Matthew, Ch 14 & 17 and St Luke Ch 24). There are a lot of poor countries where people would starve, especially in Africa, where the only food is what fish they can catch.... K. HAWKSEY, Birch Street, Birkdale (letter)
Southport Visiter 12.12.03 Kindness and love GOD sent Jesus on a trip to start Christmas. Jesus taught us that it is kindness and love that matter. This should include God's creatures - the animals, birds and fish. Be kind this Christmas and go vegetarian… MARY BRAITHWAITE, Hawkshead Street (letter)

Argus 24.12.03 Why can't we learn to live with wildlife? Brighton and Hove is well known for being a city of animal lovers and is rich in wildlife diversity.... But we don't appreciate the value of this wildlife enough and the 40 grey squirrels culled for nesting in the Portslade cemetery chapel roof are an example of this... As more wildlife and habitat is lost each year to development, we have to seriously look at protecting the vulnerable wildlife we have left -Gloria Wheatcroft, Hove (letter)

Sussex Express 23.12.03 Celebration day for hunts - HUNTS in East Sussex plan to celebrate the effective shelving of the Hunting Bill with big gatherings for their meets on Boxing Day. The Southdown and Eridge Hunt will meet outside the White Hart in Lewes at 11am, while the East Sussex and Romney Marsh meets at Battle Abbey... (story)

Driffield Times 23.12.03 CROWDS TO GREET BOXING DAY HUNT - THE traditional Boxing Day meeting of the Middleton Hunt will take place as usual, despite the threat hanging over the future of hunting. Huntsmen and women will meet as usual on Cross Hill, Driffield, at 11am on Friday where large crowds traditionally gather to watch... (story)

Shropshire Star 23.12.03 All set for a hunt to remember - More people will take part in Shropshire's traditional Boxing Day hunt meetings than ever before in defiance of Government attempts to ban the sport, campaigners have claimed.... Mark Allman, jointmaster of north Shropshire hunt, said he doubted it would be their last hunt despite speculation about a ban. The Albrighton Hunt will be out in Newport; the David Davies Hunt will be out at Llanidloes; the Ludlow Hunt meets at Ludlow Castle; the North Shropshire Hunt meets at The Albright Hussey, Broad Oak, near Shrewsbury; the South Shropshire Hunt meets at the New Inn, Hook-a-Gate, near Shrewsbury. Shropshire Beagles meet at the Corbett Arms, Upton Magna, near Shrewsbury; the Teme Valley Hunt meets at the Knighton Hotel, Knighton, Powys; The United Hunt meets at the Castle Hotel, Bishops Castle; and the Wheatland Hotel meets at Morville, near Bridgnorth. (story)

Birmingham Post 23.12.03 Influx of people to country pursuits By Sarah Probert, Birmingham Post - Fears of a Government clampdown on fox hunting and shooting has provoked thousands of people to take up the countryside pursuits, with some organisations seeing recruitment at its highest level for more than a decade…. The British Association of Shooting and Conservation (BASC) has welcomed 14,200 new members this year - the highest level of new membership for more than ten years…. The Countryside Alliance, which has lobbied against a ban on hunting, is also welcoming new recruits into the fold, with 3,000 people attending its recent hunting day for newcomers… One newcomer is Liz Hill, a company secretary from Kidderminster, who follows the Albrighton and Woodland Hunt on foot with her dog Duffle…. Carl Cox, regional director of BASC in the West Midlands, said the debate over banning hunting with dogs and fears that shooting could be next on the Govern-ment's hit list had provoked many people to join up…. (story)

Portsmouth News 23.12.03 Huntsmen and protesters line up for big day - COULD this Friday be the last time people gather at Christmas to watch the annual spectacle of a hunt meeting before heading into the countryside in pursuit of a fox?... Hunt saboteur Simon Wild from Felpham, who runs the West Sussex Wildlife Protection Group, said he believed a ban would eventually happen.... But Rosamond Masterman from the Meon Valley was among more than 40,000 hunt supporters who last month signed a declaration saying they would break any law introduced to ban hunting and accept the legal consequences – even if it meant jail.... the League Against Cruel Sports is planning Boxing Day protests at the Hampshire hunt meet at Balmer Lawn, Brockenhurst in the New Forest and at the Isle of Wight hunt meet at Carisbrooke Castle. Curtis Thompson leads the Hursley Hambledon Hunt through Meonstoke village on a previous Boxing Day morning (photo) (story)

Wolverhampton Express & Star 23.12.03 MP backing new bid to outlaw fox hunting by Gemma Handy - THE “CRUEL and bloody” sport of hunting with dogs could soon be a thing of the past if a leading city MP’s campaign is successful. Wolverhampton South West MP Rob Marris has pledged to see a ban become reality by continuing to press for the Hunting Bill to be reintroduced into Parliament.... (story)