The Cotley Hunt, established in 1797 and one of the oldest hunting traditions in the UK, will host a public demonstration on Friday, 10th October, as part of the British Hound Sports Association’s (BHSA) National Trail Hunting Day. Today, the Cotley Hunt operates as a trail hunt, which is a legally sanctioned form of hunting.
This event marks the second national initiative organized by the BHSA in response to the Labour Party’s 2024 manifesto, which pledges to ban trail hunting under its ‘Stronger Animal Welfare’ commitment. The demonstration seeks to invite Members of Parliament, Police and Crime Commissioners, Rural Crime Officers, media, and the public to witness firsthand that trail hunting is legal, regulated, and an enduring rural tradition.
Trail hunting emerged in 2005 as a legal alternative to traditional hunting, which was banned in England and Wales under the Hunting Act 2004 and in Scotland under the Protection of Wild Animals (Scotland) Act 2002. The practice involves laying a scent trail using urine from animals like foxes or hares in typical habitats, allowing hounds to follow the scent and mimic a traditional hunt without pursuing live prey. The hounds and their handlers are unaware of the trail’s route in advance, maintaining the spontaneity of the hunt.
READ MORE: Future of Key Frome Regeneration Site Hangs in the Balance Amid Mayday Saxonvale Funding Delays
READ MORE: Somerset Village on the Brink of Major Transformation with Thousands of New Homes Proposed
Despite its legal status, trail hunting remains a highly contentious subject. Critics, including animal welfare organizations and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), argue the practice serves as a cover for illegal hunting. They point out that the scent is often placed in areas populated by wildlife, resulting in real fox and hare hunts. Between August and December 2024 alone, reports indicate that 186 foxes were attacked during hunts in the UK. Moreover, the League Against Cruel Sports notes that among 4,000 monitored trail hunts, only 3% actually observed trails being laid.
In contrast, the BHSA defends trail hunting as a lawful, well-regulated activity vital to maintaining rural heritage. The Cotley Hunt especially highlights the importance of the West Country Harrier, a rare hound breed of just 400 individuals native to southwest England. A ban on trail hunting could threaten the future of this unique breed and the livelihood of over 15,000 hounds across the country.
Mary Perry, joint master of the Cotley Hunt, shared, “We adore our hounds and are immensely proud of their heritage. My family has loved these hounds for over 230 years.” She adds, “These hounds are far too important to lose due to ignorance and prejudice.”
Beyond tradition, the Cotley Hunt contributes significantly to local economies, generating around £100,000 annually and supporting numerous businesses. It raises over £4,000 for charity each year and hosts more than 30 community social events annually, such as the Cotley Fun Rides, Point to Point races, Pony Club activities, and hedgerow management projects. These events draw visitors and strengthen community ties.
Perry emphasized, “The Hunt is central to our community, providing vital social engagement and helping to combat rural isolation.”
Olly Hughes, Managing Director of the BHSA, highlights the broader benefits of trail hunting: “It preserves long-standing rural traditions, supports employment, and brings communities together. We urge MPs to engage with us before pushing for legislative bans. Witnessing the positive impact firsthand would clarify what is truly at stake.”
The Cotley Hunt concludes that the politically charged debate often leaves rural communities feeling overlooked, as urban constituencies dominate political focus. They hope this demonstration will foster greater understanding and respect for trail hunting’s role in rural life.