AS the riders assemble and the hounds bound around the frosty field, rays of sunshine burst through the clouds to create a typical picture postcard country scene.

But this is no typical November's day for the enthusiasts and supporters of Bedale Hunt, in North Yorkshire.

For they are only too aware that, in the near future, gatherings such as this could be the prelude to illegal activity.

The passing of the Hunting Bill on Thursday hangs like a shadow over the gathered masses.

All the same, the mood is more defiance than defeatism, more anger than acceptance of the situation.

The talk at Manor Farm, in North Cowton, all centres around last week's extraordinary events.

For only the fourth time since the Second World War, the Parliament Act was used to allow the House of Commons to overrule the Lords -and set the wheels in motion for the ban to come into effect on February 18.

Legal battles will follow as the Countryside Alliance takes its argument to the top.

Stalwarts of the Bedale Hunt make it clear they will not take the situation lying down.

Hunt master Charles Frampton blows once on his horn, calling his charges to attention.

"It's a very sad today, I do not really know what to say," he told the assembled masses.

"With any luck, we will now see more support from the public than ever before.

"If you wish to come to the meet at Clifton Castle on February 19, you are most welcome. We will continue and finish the season."

Despite everything, a sense of humour prevails.

"However," the hunt master continues, "it may be that we are directing operations from Northallerton clink - I believe the food there is very good.

"I appreciate that you have families and children, and if you do not want anything to do with this, you will not be looked down upon.

"Nobody wants a criminal record, but at the moment I do not see any other option."

William White, who has been part of the hunt for 45 years, said: "We are hell-bent on doing all we can. We are very determined.

"I have had wonderful times and pleasure over the years and I am fighting for the next generation to enjoy that too.

"Hunting is a great leveller. You get people from all walks of life. When you are out there, it does not matter who you are, you are all on the same level."

Others are more reserved in their comments.

The joint master of the hunt, Peter Patrick, said: "We are so upset obviously, but we have got to say that if it is our last season, let's make it a good one."

Ron Dobson, of Leeming Bar, near Northallerton, North Yorkshire, said: "It is a shame but if it is the law, it is the law. We will see how we get on with the court battle."

Just after 11am, the early morning chill has disappeared and the conditions for hunting are perfect.

The galloping of hooves and yelping of hounds begins as the hunt sets off into the distance, searching for the scent of a fox.

How much longer this traditional scene will be witnessed remains to be seen.