Police Investigate After Tensions Between Activists and Hunt Supporters Escalate

Violent altercations broke out during the annual Boxing Day Hunt in Lacock, Wiltshire, as captured in videos shared on social media.

Supporters and participants of the Avon Vale Hunt had gathered outside The Red Lion pub before the traditional event commenced on 27 December. The event also drew the presence of around 100 activists, according to reports.

Footage shows confrontations between hunt members, their supporters, and activists. Tensions escalated into multiple physical clashes, with protesters chanting “shame on you” at hunt participants navigating through the crowd on horseback. During the altercations, a man doused another with beer, while someone wearing a balaclava was seen throwing punches.

In another moment, protesters yelled “get them away” at a police officer, while another person shouted profanities. The officer responded, instructing individuals to stop shouting and demanding respect.

Wiltshire Police confirmed that no arrests had been made. A spokesperson for the force said:

“We were aware of a planned local hunt in Lacock today (27/12) and officers attended at around 11am when concerns were raised about tensions between those involved in the hunt and protestors.

“Officers remained on the scene to manage the two groups, and they had dispersed by around 12.30pm. At this stage, no arrests have been made, but our enquiries are continuing.”

Boxing Day hunts often become a focal point for conflicts between animal rights activists and hunt supporters. While fox hunting has been illegal in England and Wales since 2005, it continues in the form of “trail hunting,” where hounds follow artificial scents instead of live animals.

Critics argue, however, that this practice still results in foxes being harmed or killed, sparking ongoing debates about animal cruelty and the legitimacy of trail hunting.