Police Launch Probe into Horse Strike Incident
Durham Constabulary has opened an animal cruelty investigation after a huntsman was filmed striking his horse over the head with a riding crop. The incident, which took place in Foxton, near Sedgefield, County Durham, on Saturday, November 8, was captured on video by anti-hunting campaign groups.
Horror Footage Captures Moment of Impact
The video shows the man, who was riding with the South Durham Hunt, appearing to become frustrated as his horse bucks and turns. He is then seen lashing out with his left hand, with his crop making heavy contact with the animal. The force of the impact is such that the horse is seen closing its eyes. The footage was widely shared online, prompting the police investigation.
The groups responsible for filming, North East Hunt Monitors and Protect The Wild, stated that their members shouted at the huntsman during the incident, hoping to provoke a sense of shame. They expressed their view that he showed "little genuine care for the horse."
Governing Body and Authorities Respond
In response to the video, the British Hounds Sports Association (BHSA), the governing body for the hunt, called the incident "unacceptable" and stated it fell "well below the standards expected." They acknowledged the clip showed a "brief lapse in judgement" by an experienced horseman but emphasised their commitment to animal welfare.
A formal reprimand has been issued to the huntsman involved, and a precautionary welfare inspection has been arranged. The BHSA was keen to stress that this was an isolated incident and not representative of the hunt's overall standards.
A spokesperson for Durham Constabulary confirmed: "Officers are now reviewing CCTV in relation to suspected animal cruelty to a horse. An investigation is underway, and officers are working alongside RSPCA colleagues."
The RSPCA has also confirmed it is aware of the video and is looking into the complaints made about it.
