IT is a New Forest tradition dating back hundreds of years – and one of the biggest events in the countryside calendar.

Hundreds of people flocked to the start of the annual Boxing Day Hunt, which saw around 100 riders race through the Forest chasing a pack of foxhounds on the trail of a scent.

The grounds of Balmer Lawn Hotel were packed with people clammering for a glimpse of the riders and their dogs.

Many of the riders chose to wear traditional hunting outfits of bright red jackets, white jodhpurs and top hats for the annual hunt, organised by the New Forest Hounds club.

Shortly after 11am, one of the lead riders sounded the huntsman’s horn and the excited pack of hounds tore off in search of the trails, laid earlier in the day by dragging a scent from horseback.

In the excitement, one unfortunate dog was kicked by a horse and had to be carried to safety by a rider.

Mike Squibb, chairman of the New Forest Hounds, said: “We go hunting twice a week but our Boxing Day hunt is what it’s all about for us.

“It is the culmination of our year and is extremely important to us.

“It is a tradition that dates back hundreds of years in the New Forest.”

Mr Squibb said he welcomed a recent survey which revealed a Conservative election win could see an end to the hunting ban, which was brought in by Labour in 2005.

The survey of 130 would-be Tory MPs said none of them would vote against the ban being scrapped and only seven would abstain.

He added: “The ban is a dreadful law which has only seen three successful prosecutions in nearly five years.

“It is impossible for us to work with and needs to be got rid of.”

Hampshires Conservative MP Julian Lewis and prospective MP Caroline Nokes, attended the hunt in a clear sign of their support.

Dr Lewis, a vocal supporter of fox hunting, said: “We come to the Boxing Day hunt for personal pleasure but also for solidarity.

“Fox hunting is a great New Forest tradition that should be celebrated.

“The ban is more about stopping people’s enjoyment of hunting than it is about concern for the welfare of foxes.”

Leading anti-hunting campaigner Ken James welcomed a campaign supporting the ban launched by Environment Secretary Hilary Benn and backed by the actors Patrick Stewart, Jenny Seagrove and Tony Robinson.