Saboteurs say they have been attacked after demonstrating against a long standing Boxing Day hunt tradition.

According to the Hunt Saboteurs Association, a demonstrator in Elham was thrown in front of a passing car before being punched and kicked.

The organisation also claims that a 19-year-old woman was punched in Tenterden and a band had their equipment destroyed.

The alleged attacks come after the the East Kent with West Street Hunt was forced to abandon it's century old tradition of meeting in Elham Village Square by annual protests.

Grant Tillman of the East Kent Hunt Saboteurs, said: "We're horrified, absolutely horrified. We held two peaceful demonstrations in Kent and had two people in hospital, a band had their equipment smashed up, and someone's daughter was punched in the face.

Police have confirmed an arrest was made for assault.

Nick Onslow, a spokesman from the East Kent Hunt said: "Following a day of trail-hunting within the law, the joint-masters of the East Kent with West Street Hunt were surprised to learn of an alleged assault that is being connected to our Boxing Day meet which was held at the Hunt Kennels earlier today. The incident took place in Elham and according to the reports, we understand it took place long after the hunt and its supporters had left the village.

“The East Kent with West Street Hunt does not condone violence, even in cases of extreme provocation and of course extends its best wishes to the victim for a speedy recovery.”