Holcombe Hunt returns to Pleasington as future of trail hunting faces uncertainty

Friday, 26 December 2025 18:26

By David Murphy

Supporters gathered in their hundreds in Pleasington on Boxing Day for the historic Holcombe Hunt, as debate over the future legality of trail hunting continues.

The event took place outside The Railway Hotel on Victoria Road and saw crowds, horses and hounds gather ahead of the midday start. The hunt, which follows an artificial scent rather than a live animal, lasted until around 2pm.

Spectators lined the route as the hounds were led on the laid trail, with organisers keen to show how modern-day hunts operate within current legislation.

Sue Simmons, master of the hunt, spoke before the start to thank attendees and address government proposals that could see trail hunting banned in future. Referring to the animal welfare strategy announced earlier this month, she said the plans to consult on a ban by early 2026 were “a threat to the rural economy”.

“Trail hunting is a legal pursuit no different to driving a car or drinking alcohol in a pub,” she told the crowd. “People do break the law and there are regulations in place to control that. That is no different for the sport of trail hunting.

“It is fully regulated by the British Hound Sports Association and there is no reason why it should not continue. I am overwhelmed to see all of your support here today. Please keep fighting for the British countryside.”

The Boxing Day meet is part of a centuries-old tradition, with the Holcombe Hunt claiming origins dating back to 1086. The group previously met in Rivington before relocating to Pleasington, near Blackburn, in recent years.

Photographs taken by our photographer Danny Crompton captured the scenes, including the hounds, riders and gathered crowds.

The next hunt is scheduled to take place on New Year’s Day.

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