Fitzwilliam Hunt based at Milton Park near Castor held 'successful' Boxing Day meet in Stilton

A hunt saw its biggest turn out in years when it met on Boxing Day.

The Fitzwilliam Hunt, which is based at Milton Park near Castor, kept its Christmas tradition going with a meet in Stilton.

Hundreds of people turned up to show their support while a group of saboteurs also gathered in protest of the hunt.

Polly Portwin, director of the Countryside Alliance’s campaign for hunting, said: "It was a fantastic turn out and was one of the largest crowds that the Fitzwilliam Hunt has seen."

She added: "There's huge support for the hounds and for hunting within the law.

"It's a great opportunity to demonstrate that in a public place where everyone is welcome.

"A lot of people factor it into their Christmas plans."

After the meet came to an end members went on a trail hunt in the Stilton area.

This involves a scent being laid by a trail layer across the countryside for hounds to follow.

Polly said: "Thank you to the people of Stilton for welcoming us as we took over the village.

"It was a hugely successful day with all hunts across the country reporting good turn outs."

However, the event was not all plain sailing as police officers who were on patrol in Stilton arrested a woman just minutes after the event started.

She was alleged to have spat at another woman following an argument.

Teresa Underwood, 46, of Church Street in Woodford, near Kettering, was arrested and later charged with common assault.

She has been released on bail to appear at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court on January 25.

The Cottesmore Hunt also met on Boxing Day at Exton Hall.

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