THE new chairman of South Herefordshire Hunt has confirmed the hunt placed itself in voluntary suspension as a police investigation continues.

Major Patrick Darling has just taken over as the new chairman and has released a statement with regards to the ongoing police case.

Five people were arrested last year following an alleged offence of animal cruelty at the hunt's kennels in Wormelow.

They are currently on bail until a date in May.

Major Darling said arrangements have been made for other local packs to conduct legal trail-hunting and horse and hound exercise within the South Herefordshire Hunt’s area, while the suspension is ongoing.

He added: "The decision follows the appalling events alleged to have taken place at the South Herefordshire kennels.

"Whilst these events are the subject of an ongoing police investigation, the South Herefordshire Hunt wishes to emphasise that it condemns absolutely the alleged conduct and that those implicated are no longer employed by the hunt or play any part in its activities."

Major Darling added: "The hunt wishes to state that such acts as are alleged have never been considered normal, usual or acceptable in hunting circles now or indeed in hunting history."