MEMBERS of the East Kent Hunt have vowed to ride out again just hours after the hunting ban comes into force next month.

The pledge follows their latest gathering on the Common at Stelling Minnis, near Canterbury, last weekend. Up to 50 riders of all ages assembled at the Rose and Crown pub, cheered on by more than 200 supporters.

Many believed it would be the last event before hunting is banned on February 18. But they are being assured that the East Kent Hunt has no intention of packing up.

Hunt and Countryside Alliance campaigner Nick Onslow said: "This is always a popular meet but the turn-out was exceptional for mid-January. Some people came because they thought it would be our last hunt, but we have no intention of disbanding.

"The people of Stelling Minnis can rest assured that the hunt will be back for many years to come."

The hunt is meeting on February 17, just hours before the ban comes into force, but the venue in the Ashford area is not being publicised.

Mr Onslow added: "In fact, we will also be meeting on February 19 at Crundale House, just 35 hours after the ban comes into force, but to hunt within the law. That will be a special day and we expect many supporters to turn out."

Mr Onslow said that hunting 'within the law' would mean hunting to a scent, or using just two dogs to flush a fox which would then be shot, or just exercising the hounds.

The Country Alliance is challenging the Government's use of the Parliament Act to force the Hunting Bill through. It is seeking an injunction in the High Court, due to be heard on Monday, to delay the start of the ban.

On Monday the League Against Cruel Sports was granted leave by the High Court to make submissions against the Countryside Alliance's challenge.