A Boxing Day tradition that has been carried out for centuries drew huge crowds in Castle Hedingham.

The East Essex Hunt set off from the Bell Pub, in St James’ Street, Castle Hedingham, on the morning of Boxing Day, with a turn out of about 40 horses.

Huntsman Gary Thorpe said: “We had a very good turn out.

“There were several hundred on foot as well.

“There were no problems regarding hunt saboteurs and we had a good ride.

“It was a nice pleasant day and it was dry.

“The tradition of a Boxing Day hunt has been going on for hundreds of years and used to take place down Halstead High Street, but we have been going from the Bell Pub for the last five years.

“There has been more and more support for the hounds recently.”