WORCESTERSHIRE huntsmen came face-to-face with pantomime horses, foxes and hunters at their annual Boxing Day meet.

Animal rights protesters spiced up the colour and pageantry of the traditional Worcestershire Hunt with their own panto version as they screamed abuse at riders and foot-followers.

It is believed one anti-hunt protester was arrested at the otherwise trouble-free event, but was released without charge.

As the hunt was about to set off, a large number of pro-hunters congregated outside Droitwich's Raven Hotel to form a line of support for the 70-strong riders.

Hundreds gathered in the hotel car park to meet and greet the riders, who set off shortly after 11am.

One horse, on its way into the hotel grounds became spooked and moved into a group of hunt supporters, including a boy of around eight who was nearly trampled on.

A defiant Bob Brierley, spokesman for the hunt, said that despite Worcester MP Mike Foster's efforts to bring in an anti-hunting Bill, this would not be the last Boxing Day meet.

"The Bill sounds the death knell for hunting. We're very concerned about our liberties being threatened," he said.

"One MP who didn't vote in favour was Jack Straw, because there's no way the police can police hunting, what with everything else going on."

Traditional

John Burgess, of the Countryside Alliance, said it had become an annual event to trade insults with the anti-hunt protesters.

"It's become quite traditional, it makes the day even more lively," said Mr Burgess, who was joining up with another hunt later in the day.

"This is definitely not the last one. There's no way that we, or the nation, can accept an infringement of civil liberties in such a way."

But Anita Knittel, of the Worcester Animal Rights Coalition, said that this show had got to stop.

"The hunt views the Boxing Day meet as its tradition. From their side it's a bit of fun," said Ms Knittel, who dressed up in riding gear for the day.

"From our side it's a bit of a pantomime - they chase and kill wild animals for fun. This is a good contrast."

Meanwhile, at least one fox was killed during the hunt.

"The farmer was very pleased with the kill," said Mr Brierley.

"The only way we can justify hunting is that we help the farmers."