Hunt pair accused of rules breach

TWO MASTERS SUSPENDED AS INVESTIGATION TAKES PLACE

A HUNT has suspended two senior members after they allegedly broke coronavirus lockdown regulations by riding in the countryside with a pack of dogs.

The pair, both masters with the Quorn Hunt, are accused of riding in full hunting dress with hounds near Burley-on-the-Hill, Rutland, to celebrate a birthday this month.

Police confirmed they are investigating a report of “hunting activity” said to have taken place on Thursday, March 18.

Dogs apparently gathered around what hunt opponents believe may be a foxhole or a badger sett.

Lockdown regulations say hounds should only be exercised from their kennels.

In a statement, the hunt, which is based in Kirby Bellars, said: “Two masters of the Quorn Hunt have been suspended by the hunt committee as a result of an ongoing inquiry relating to hound exercise.

“The Masters of Foxhounds Association is conducting its own investigation and hassuspended one of our masters from the association pending the conclusion of that inquiry.”

A police spokesman said: “Officers have received a report from a member of the public of hunting activity near Exton Lane, Oakham, on March 18.

“Inquires are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.”

The Hunt Saboteurs’ Association said it received footage of the incident from an anonymous source from the hunting world.