Wilton Hunt under threat from proposed trail hunting ban

The Wilton Hunt, which has operated since 1869 and covers parts of Wiltshire, Hampshire, and Dorset, faces closure under a proposed UK Government ban on the sport, despite claims of broad support for trail hunting in the south of England.

Ollie Coward, joint master of the Wilton Hunt, said: "The government seems to have made up its mind that we should be closed down.

"We have hundreds of supporters, young and old, and we run a full programme of social events throughout the year.

"We are proud to be known as the friendliest hunt in the country, and everyone is welcome to ride out with us.

"Trail hunting does not involve chasing a fox or any other animal.

"We lay a scent trail before every hunt, and that process is documented and kept as a record.

"MPs should come and see for themselves before banning our sport and all the benefits that go along with it."

The Wilton Hunt could be forced to close(Image: Anna Rainbow)

Trail hunting involves laying an artificial scent for hounds to follow, rather than pursuing live animals.

The Wilton Hunt is a member of the British Hound Sports Association (BHSA), which licenses 228 packs across England and Wales.

Since the Hunting Act 2004 became law in 2005, an estimated 280,000 days of trail hunting have taken place, with fewer than 30 convictions for illegal hunting in the past 20 years.

Olly Hughes, managing director of the BHSA, said: "Trail hunting is an ethical, legal and highly regulated activity that preserves long-standing traditions, supports employment and brings rural communities together.

"It also provides a lawful and structured outlet for working hounds to carry out the function for which they are bred and trained – following deliberately laid scent trails."

Supporters argue that the hunt plays a valuable role in the rural community, both socially and economically.

Mr Coward said: "All sorts of local businesses benefit from the trade associated with the hunt.

"Hundreds of people would miss the season, which provides not just the trail hunting itself but all the social events alongside it.

"It’s a major part of rural life here.

"If anyone breaks the law, they deserve to be prosecuted, but why would you ban something which has massive benefits for the local community?"

The Wilton Hunt has invited MPs and councillors to its event marking National Trail Hunting Day on Friday, October 10, at Lopshill Farm in Fordingbridge, where they will be able to observe the laying and following of scent trails and learn about the rules and safeguards in place.