Hadleigh Hunt - Boxing Day 2003

Around 300 people gathered for the annual Boxing Day Hunt in Hadleigh.  There was little evidence of organised protesters and the only casualty was a solitary fox.
	Even on a grey, chilly day, the Essex and Suffolk Hunt make a diverting and colourful sight.  There red and black jackets could be seen clearly against the greys and greens of their Barbour-wearing families and friends.
Generally, the townsfolk held back.  Transfixed and entertained by groups of hounds and horsemen, they huddled on the roadway some distance from the hunters.
	With the House of Commons once again sending a clear message to the Lords that MPs want hunting banned, most of the spectators must have wondered dispassionately whether this event will ever take place again.  Though the same thoughts must have occurred on every Boxing Day since 1997.
For the most part the Master and his lieutenants roamed around the fields south of the river, sounding horns and searching amongst the few wooded areas.  Whilst the main body of horsemen and women gathered forlornly waiting for the chase to begin.
	It was cold, and as a spectator sport, it has little appeal.  The crowd of locals disappeared off to their suburban homes leaving the diehards and the country set to their own entertainment.  Presumably, the two cultures will meet again at the Hadleigh Show in May.
Two police cars and a few 4x4s careered up towards Holbecks, presumably chasing Hunt Sabs.
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