Members of the Cotley Hunt in Somerset have strongly rebutted claims that their traditional Boxing Day meet in Chard poses a significant risk to public safety and animal welfare. The hunt’s Boxing Day event takes place outside Chard’s Guildhall and is a well-established local tradition.
Action Against Foxhunting (AAF) member Alyson Rogers raised concerns at a Somerset Council meeting in December, alleging inadequate hygiene standards and improper road closure procedures that endanger the public. She criticized the hunt for allegedly not securing authorised road closures on the A30 Fore Street and claimed the hunt’s hounds had been fed unsafe food potentially carrying transmissible diseases such as salmonella, citing an incident at a previous meet.
In response, the Cotley Hunt emphasized their commitment to safety and regulatory compliance. They confirmed that they follow the proper legal process to obtain road closure licences each year and supply the required public liability insurance. They also described their strict protocols for feeding and veterinary care of their hounds, who primarily eat a professionally managed dry diet and receive regular worming treatments.
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The hunt highlighted that only horses accustomed to busy town environments participate in the event, with unsuitable horses remaining outside Chard. They provide alcohol-based hand sanitizers to visitors who wish to pet the hounds and take measures to maintain sanitary conditions.
Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts acknowledged the concerns raised but noted that road closure approvals are based on safety and traffic management criteria rather than event type. She advised that any illegal hunting activity is a matter for police enforcement and encouraged the public to report such incidents to the Avon and Somerset Constabulary.
The Cotley Hunt concluded by expressing pride in their hounds and the strong connection with the Chard community, pledging to keep the Boxing Day meet safe, enjoyable, and welcoming for all attendees.