HUNDREDS of people have gathered in Uttoxeter for a special New Years Day hunt — the first in the town for more than 70 years.
The hunt proved a huge success for the Meynell and South Staffordshire Hunt and the town as people flocked to see the historic occasion which is hoped will become an annual event. There were believed to be about 60 mounted huntsmen and women, who took to the streets of the town before setting off on the hunt across nearby fields.
Uttoxeter Mayor David Brookes admitted it was ‘emotional’ to see the hunt in the town again and to have his two daughters taking part on horseback He said: “It was absolutely fantastic. I think there were possibly up to 400 people there in Market Place — it was absolutely packed.
“I was very proud and was quite filled up to see them trot up Market Place and into Carter Street. It was a tremendous sight.
“I’m sure it can be an annual event — there is no reason why it can’t be. There was no trouble and the hunt supporters cleaned up the mess afterwards as I knew they would.
“The management of the Old Swan in Market Place provided the stirrup cup (traditional drink, usually port or sherry, served at hunt meets) and pigs in blankets, which were very well received and I am indebted to them for that.”
The hunt proved a hit with residents who gathered to cheer the hunt off with many calling for it to return again next New Year.
Eddie Whittaker, from Uttoxeter, said: “A great spectacle and a great crowd - the first hunt gathering I have been to and hopefully it will be a regular occurrence in Uttoxeter.”
Another supporter Jill Francis said: “It was a great sight and I think all who turned out to welcome the hunt back to the town enjoyed it.
"I hope the New Year’s Day hunt in Uttoxeter becomes a regular thing.”
