Trail hunting ban: Holcombe Hunt Boxing Day event returns

Crowds, dogs and horses gathered outside The Railway Hotel, on Victoria Road, ahead of the main event which began at around midday and finished at around 2pm.

The event, which abides by hunting laws, sees an artificial trail being laid around the field for the dogs, illustrating how modern day hunts operate before the hounds are let loose to follow the trail. 

Sue Simmons, master of the hunt, addressed the crowd before the start and spoke about the Government’s animal welfare strategy, which was announced earlier this month.

It sets out plans “put an end to trail hunting and consult in early 2026 on how to deliver a ban on trail hunting.”

In a video, filmed by Danny Crompton, Sue can be seen addressing the crowd and said: “A heartfelt thank you goes out to all of you who support British rural countryside sports.

“The Government pledged in its manifesto to ban trail hunting as well as other things which are against our rural economy.

“Trail hunting is a legal pursuit no different to driving a car or drinking alcohol in a pub.

“People do break the law and there are regulations in place to control that. That is no different for the sport of trail hunting.

“It is a legal pursuit and is fully regulated by the British Hound Sports Association and there is no reason why it should not continue.

“I am overwhelmed to see all of your support here today and it is a heartfelt thank you from me personally… please keep fighting for the British countryside.”

At the top of this article, there is a gallery of pictures of the hunt taken by local photographer Phil Taylor. 

They showcase everything from the crowds to the Stud Book Harriers to the horses and riders. 

The historic hunt, which dates back to 1086, was previously held in Rivington but has taken place in Pleasington, near Blackburn, in recent years. 

The Holcombe Hunt has a recorded history dating back to 1086.

It was previously held in Rivington before moving to Pleasington in recent years.

The next hunt organised by the group is scheduled for New Year’s Day.