MEMBERS of the Tetcott Hunt are inviting newcomers to experience a free taste of modern hunting in a bid to get more people interested in the sport.

On Saturday, October 10, people will get the opportunity to experience a 'trail hunt', a new form of hunting that has taken off since the ban was introduced in 2005.

Trail hunting involves laying out a concentrated fluid for the hunt to follow, rather than chasing a fox, effectively removing the cruelty from the sport.

The Tetcott Hunt covers an area running from Clovelly to Wainhouse corner and from Holsworthy to Bude, a huge area of open countryside.

Hunt chairman, Julian Smeeth, said: "This special newcomers' day is all about getting people, adults and children alike, out enjoying themselves. Experienced riders will be on hand to accompany the more nervous and all we want to do is get people out with us following hounds across beautiful countryside."

The newcomers day is part of the Countryside Alliance's Newcomers Week with packs taking part nationwide.

A spokesman for the Alliance said: "It offers a timely opportunity for the public to enjoy and embrace hunting for free.

"The future of hunting will not be ensured by a repeal of the hunting act alone.

"But whenever repeal comes, and it seems increasingly imminent, hunting must continue to sell itself to new markets and encourage the next generation of support for hunts."

These types of trials have, however, raised fears from some animal cruelty groups.

Douglas Batchelor, chief executive of the League Against Cruel Sports, said: "Trail hunts are a positive thing for people who enjoy the sport of hunting but want to remove the cruelty.

"We have always stated that hunting would become a more popular sport once the cruelty was removed.

"However, people thinking of getting involved in hunting should be cautious that they don't get sucked into other types of exempt hunting."

For more information or for those wishing to get involved in the hunt, contact Kevin Wheeler on 07970 322474.