Huntsman accused of hitting protester
A MAN has been arrested after it was alleged he hit a woman over the head with a riding crop.
Video footage shows huntsmen, believed to be with the Atherstone Hunt, involved in a row with activists before a woman is injured.
The footage was recorded by a body camera during a hunt meeting in Shackerstone in Leicestershire on Saturday.
One hunt member can be heard insulting one of the activists, and as the riders pass the protesters, a loud thump sound is heard and a woman is heard screaming as the camera turns back to a hunt member holding a riding crop.
The West Midlands Hunt Saboteurs claim one of their members was left with head injuries.
A spokesperson for Leicestershire Police said: “A 54-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of ABH following a report of an assault which is alleged to have happened in Derby Road, Shackerstone, on Saturday, February 11.
“He has been bailed pending further inquiries.”
West Midlands Hunt Saboteurs claim the woman had to be taken to hospital to have the cut to her head glued back together.
An Atherstone Hunt spokewoman said: “I can confirm that the Atherstone Hunt are cooperating with the police in relation to the incident and all of our video footage has been handed over to them.
“We are not able to make further comment while the investigation is ongoing.”