IT was a case of the hunted and the hunter on Saturday (Jan 6) when huntsmen gathered at Affetside for the controversial "sport" of fox hunting.

Around 30 members of the Holcombe Hunt, resplendent in the traditional black and red, gathered at the Pack Horse pub for the seasonal meet.

And pictured ready for the off is this huntsman on horse with the hounds by his side.

Hunt saboteurs were absent from the scene, but two women and a young girl were determined to make their voice heard against what they described as a "barbaric sport".

The Holcombe Hunt dates back to the 14th century and attracts people from many different backgrounds.

Saturday's event was the Children's Meet with the youngest participant being ten-year-old Emily Green from Bolton. Speaking in support of the hunt, she said: "Fox hunting is a traditional part of countryside life and an important part of national heritage. If it is banned then shooting and fishing should also be banned."

Her mother, Claire, said: "Remember we have to seek the farmer's permission to go on their land and they do invite us on to fox hunt."

Eight-year-old Rachel McEwing who lives in the village braved the cold weather for three hours to protest against the hunt.

She told the Bury Times: "It is a horrible sport, cruel and wrong. We should protect all of God's creatures."

Rachel was accompanied by Pat Crompton and Olga Gee, who also live in the village.

Mrs Gee said: "Many of the saboteurs travelled to Cheshire for the big hunt there. But we are determined to make a stand.

"There is no need for this cruelty against animals and there should be a total ban just like we were promised before the general election."

But despite the current political climate, the Holcombe Hunt is growing in popularity.

Joint master of the hunt, Mr George Dickinson, said: "The Holcombe Hunt has been more popular this year than in previous years. More members from different backgrounds are joining."

Commenting on the hunt, he added: "We didn't catch anything.

"There were a few chases but this time the foxes escaped. But then, we don't mind that at all!"