The traditional Boxing Day hunt in Elham may be the last of its kind. It follows a recent Government confirmation that it intends to outlaw trail hunting across England and Wales.
Ministers published a new National Animal Welfare Strategy on 22 December. This document includes a firm commitment to end a practice that has been a fixture of the Kent countryside for centuries. Government officials aim to close what they describe as a “smokescreen” for the illegal pursuit of foxes. This move would effectively end a 200-year-old tradition for the Kent Hounds.
The Kent Hounds were formed from the merger of the historic East Kent, Ashford Valley, West Street, and Tickham hunts. They traditionally gather in the village square of Elham for their flagship festive event. While supporters view the meet as a cornerstone of rural community life, the new strategy represents a significant shift in Government policy.
Legislation scheduled for 2026
The newly released strategy outlines a clear legislative path toward a total ban. Environment Minister Baroness Hayman stated that the Government is now fulfilling a manifesto pledge to bolster wildlife protections.
“Evidence suggests that trail hunting is frequently used as a cover for the pursuit of wild animals,” the Minister explained. “This is not acceptable. We are now determining the most effective method for implementing a ban. A formal consultation will be launched in the new year.”
The proposed legislation aims to tighten the 2004 Hunting Act. That original law prohibited the hunting of wild mammals with dogs but allowed trail hunting to continue. In this version, hounds follow an artificial scent trail. However, critics have long argued that this legal loophole allow hunters to dismiss the killing of live animals as accidental.
A “hammerblow” to the rural economy
The announcement has sparked a fierce backlash from hunting associations and rural advocates. They argue that the ban is driven by political ideology rather than scientific evidence.
Tim Bonner, chief executive of the Countryside Alliance, described the decision to prioritise this legislation as “unbelievable.” He maintained that trail hunting is a lawful activity which provides employment and supports local businesses. Mr Bonner suggested that the move is an unnecessary attack on a legitimate part of rural life.
“The Government should be focusing on policies that help the countryside thrive,” Mr Bonner added. “This is particularly true following recent concerns over the future of family farms. Instead, they are pursuing a divisive agenda.”
Tensions in the village square
In Elham, the Boxing Day meet has historically attracted large crowds of riders and spectators. For many residents, the sight of the pack in the square is an integral part of the local festive season.
However, the event has often become a focal point for local conflict. In recent years:
- Anti-hunt protesters have mobilised regularly to demonstrate against the parade.
- Several landowners have restricted the hunt from crossing their estates.
- Police presence has been required to manage traffic and prevent confrontations between opposing groups.
Policing the “smokescreen”
The move toward a total ban follows sustained pressure from senior police figures. Chief Superintendent Matt Longman, the national policing lead for hunting, has been a vocal critic of the current legal framework.
He previously described the 2004 Act as a “leaky sieve” that is incredibly difficult to enforce. He has argued that the concept of trail hunting provides a convenient excuse for those continuing to hunt live quarry illegally.
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds supported these concerns during the strategy launch. She stated that the Government is delivering an ambitious welfare programme. She noted that the new standards will protect animals on farms, in homes, and in the wild.
The end of an era?
While the Government aims to complete its full welfare strategy by 2030, the consultation for the trail hunting ban will begin within months. This timeline indicates that while this year’s meet in Elham will go ahead, the legal window for the tradition is closing.
For the members of the Kent Hounds, this year’s gathering carries a sense of finality. If the proposed legislation progresses as expected, the sound of the hunting horn in Elham square may soon belong to the past.
