Police probe after fox killed during hunt

Police are investigating after a fox was killed during a trail hunt in Devon.

Monitors from the Devon County Hunt Saboteurs say they witnessed the killing by the Silverton Hunt on Monday.

Officers attended the scene in Cullompton to take witness statements but allegedly didn't stop the hunt.

Hunt saboteurs claim terrier men then assaulted members of their group and broke a camera.

Devon and Cornwall Police haven't commented on claims that they failed to take action, but said in a statement: "Police were called to Colebrooke Lane in Cullompton on New Year's Day after receiving reports that a fox had been killed following a hunt.

Always look to bring those responsible to justice

"As a result of the incident, officers are currently investigating allegations of offences committed under the Hunting Act 2004. No arrests have been made as of yet.

"We take all reports of criminal activity extremely seriously and always look to bring those responsible to justice, this includes gathering evidence so that we can achieve a realistic chance of prosecution.

"We are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or have any evidence to contact police via 101@dc.police.uk or by calling 101 quoting CR/000441/18."

Silverton Hunt issued a statement through the Countryside Alliance, saying: "The Silverton Hunt operates within the law by trail-hunting and complying with the Hunting Act 2004. On any occasion, if we become aware that hounds have deviated from the trails that have been laid and are following the scent of a live fox then the hounds are stopped as soon as possible."

Bloodsports opponents believe trail hunting is used as a cover for illegal fox hunting. Supporters of fox hunting are increasingly resorting to violence against monitors who film their activities.