HUNDREDS of people lined the streets in Castle Hedingham to support the East Essex Hunt on their Boxing Day ride.

Although fox hunting with dogs is banned, drag or trail racing along scented trails is still allowed and the East Essex Hunt met for their annual hunt at The Bell Inn in Saint James Street, on Boxing Day.

The hunt, which included around 30 horses and riders and dozens of hounds, gathered outside the pub for a drink and a chat with the crowd before trotting off for their ride around the countryside.

For more photos and full story see this week's Halstead Gazette