THERE was an impressive turn out for traditional Boxing Day hunts held across Worcestershire.

Thousands turned out in Droitwich for the Worcestershire Hunt's annual meet.

Crowds began to assemble after 10am, and anticipation grew as more and more horses and hounds gathered at Lido Park car park - only the second time it been held at the location.

Around 121 horses, accompanied by dozens of hounds, rode in to the site - crowds lining the streets and on the car park to welcome them.

At 11.15am, senior master of the hounds David Palmer addressed the crowd.

"There are over 300 hunts being held today and at everyone of them there will be a crowd like you supporting us on," he said. 

"I have to say that this hunt has never ever been as strong as it is today."

In his speech, Mr Palmer discussed the current political situation surrounding fox hunting.

Last July, an attempt by the Government to permit more than two dogs – the current limit – to be deployed to flush foxes out of cover in England and Wales failed.

Mr Palmer said Prime Minister David Cameron was on their side, but it had been the Scottish nationals that had derailed the attempt to change the law.

Before the hunt rode off Mr Palmer added that he was absolutely certain they would be returning again next year.

Thousands also saw off the Croome and West Warwickshire Hunt.

Spectators assembled in Broad Street, Pershore, to see the horses before they rode off at around 11.45am, following the fox scent to ensure the hunt remained in the boundaries of the law.

Before setting off master huntsman Ben Skilbeck told those who had gathered it was one of the biggest crowds he had ever seen. 

Another Croome and West Warwickshire hunt, held on Christmas Eve in Upton Upon Severn, was also well supported.