CROWDS of supporters have turned out for the annual Boxing Day hunts across the UK, as Labour vowed to strengthen legislation banning hunting with hounds.

Organisers said hundreds of thousands of people were involved in either taking part or lining the streets in support of the controversial activity, adding defiantly: “We’re here to stay.”

The turnout demonstrated that “the future of hunting is secure”, the Countryside Alliance’s head of hunting, Polly Portwin, said. The group said one of the largest turnouts was at the Avon Vale Hunt in Wiltshire, while the Bicester with Whaddon Chase Hunt in Winslow also enjoyed good support.

Ahead of the hunts, shadow environment secretary Sue Hayman said an incoming Labour government would review penalties under the Hunting Act 2004 to ensure it is an effective deterrent.

It would include a consultation on the introduction of custodial sentences, bringing it in line with the penalties for other wildlife crimes.

Ms Hayman said they would also consider measures to prevent the exploitation of “loopholes” in the legislation, which covers England and Wales.

It could include the introduction of a new “recklessness” clause to prevent trail or drag hunts being used as cover for the illegal hunting of wild mammals.

Ms Hayman said they would also look at removing an exemption for the use of dogs underground to protect game birds as it risks fights between hounds and wild animals.

Grove and Rufford Hunt chairman Nick Alexander criticised Labour’s plans.

He spoke as the hunt returned to Bawtry, near Doncaster in South Yorkshire, a year after it was refused permission to meet in the centre of the town following the convictions of three people for hunting offences.

Of Labour’s plans he said: “It’s not welcome. It just seems a bit bizarre that there’s lots of other things going on in the world at this time and, if that’s the priority, then someone needs to have a word.” Standing among the crowds, he added: “Look at all this. This is the real truth of the matter. Hunting is very much part of England – old England and modern England. And we’re here to stay.”

A Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs spokeswoman said: “The Hunting Act 2004 makes it an offence to hunt a wild mammal with dogs and completely bans hare coursing. However, the Act also sets out tightly-drawn exemptions under which dogs may be used to hunt wild mammals, subject to very strict conditions.

“Those found guilty are subject to very harsh penalties, including an unlimited fine. We are also increasing maximum sentences for those who commit the most heinous acts of animal cruelty.”