Torrington¦Tetcott¦Boxing Day hunt

THOUSANDS of people gathered in Torrington and Holsworthy for the annual Boxing Day hunts.

More than 40 mounted riders from the Tetcott Hunt gathered in Holsworthy Square joined by hundreds on foot for a trail hunt.

RAISING A GLASS: Master of the hunt Ken Ford and kennel huntsman Robert Heard meet in Torrington town square for the Boxing Day hunt. Pictures: Mike Southon 0812-157_02
PONY PAIR: Freddie Manning, eight and Ozzy Manning, three, riding Missy from Torrington. Picture: 0812-157_07
RIDE ON: Tyler Westcott, two and Clare Alderman of Torrington riding Soldier. Picture: 0812-157_04
IN CHARGE: Huntsman Lee Peters leads the Tetcott Hunt down Chapel Street, Holsworthy.
READY FOR ACTION: Abigail and Pippa Cogdell on horseback at the Tetcott Hunt.
PUPPY LOVE: Meeting the hounds are Laura and William Priest.

A similar amount on horseback from Torrington Farmers' Hunt gathered in the Cavalier town, where some thousand people crowded the streets.

Julian Smeeth, chairman of the Tetcott Hunt said: "Holsworthy was full of people — crowds packed every street.

"It is always a popular meet and this year's numbers were better than the last few years.

"It is always a great day out in the countryside and we're always thankful for the co-operation of farmers and land owners for allowing the trial hunt to take place."

Tod Marshman, chairman of the Torrington Farmers' Hunt added: "Again we had a huge crowd, which shows we not only have good support, but consistent support."

The Torrington club presented a cheque for £1,200 to the Devon Air Ambulance they raised from a charity auction on Boxing Day.