Mourners horrified as Quorn hounds chase fox

A MOURNER said she watched in horror as a large pack of hounds chasing a fox jumped over an open grave during a burial.

A woman who was at a funeral at the Prestwold Natural Burial Ground , near Loughborough, said the dogs, belonging to the Quorn Hunt, raced through the service on Monday December 16.

The Natural Burial Company, who operate the site, confirmed hounds entered their land while a service had been taking place, and say they have raised a complaint with the hunt.

The mourner, who has not been named, has expressed her disgust at the incident.

She posted to Facebook: “I attend the burial of a client of mine we looked after for two and half years.

“His wishes were to have a natural burial at Prestwold burial ground.

“We had a short service at the grave side and then left we all stood talking with the minister and we all heard galloping of horses. trumpet blowing and shouting.

“The next minute we watched as a hunt unfolded before our eyes. We were all mortified to watch.”

She says that they witnessed a live fox being chased down by a herd of dogs that jumped over the open grave.

She added: “This was absolutely horrifying for us all. Not to mention that burying a friend or relative isn’t hard enough to have to witness that was horrific.”

Christopher Doggett, managing director for the Natural Burial Company, which runs the site, has complained to the Quorn

Hunt about the incident.

He said: “We can confirm that a number of hounds from the Quorn Hunt ran from an adjoining area of land for which we have no control through a section of Prestwold Natural Burial Ground shortly after the conclusion of a funeral service on Monday December 16.

“The hounds ran close to the area in which the funeral service was held.

“The Natural Burial Company do not allow the hunt access to the burial ground and our team were shocked and saddened by this incident.

“Our representative at the burial ground did everything he could to remove the hounds from the area and a complaint has been made to the hunt.

“We wish to make it clear that we are dedicated to providing a beautiful, natural place of peace and respect at Prestwold and of our natural burial grounds.

“Every effort will continue to be made to ensure dignity and tranquillity is maintained at all times.”

A spokesperson on behalf of the Quorn Hunt said: “We can confirm that on Monday, December 16, some hounds drifted off the scent of the trail that had been laid for them to follow while legally trail-hunting, and entered the outskirts of the Prestwold Natural Burial Ground.

“We wish to express our sincerest condolences and apologies to all those affected by this regrettable incident, whilst reassuring everyone that steps will be taken to ensure this does not happen again.

“A hunt official has spoken to the funeral directors in order that an apology can be made directly to the family in the appropriate manner and time.” all