The annual Boxing Day hunt in Lewes became a center of attention as scuffles broke out among the crowd. A large gathering, formed by both supporters and opponents of the hunt, assembled on Lewes High Street near the Crown Court, leading to a tense atmosphere.
The event, featuring hounds from the Southdown and Eridge Hunt, witnessed a parade of horses and riders making their way up the High Street amidst mixed reactions from the crowd.
Amidst the charged environment, a minor skirmish led to police intervention. One individual Sussex News reporter saw was briefly detained by the police but was subsequently released. The situation was quickly brought under control, ensuring the safety of all participants and onlookers.
Sussex Police said: Seven people were arrested following reports of affray at a Boxing Day hunt parade in Lewes on Tuesday (26 December).

Five people – two women aged 24 and 26 and three men aged 35, 38 and 52 – were all later released without further action and a 49-year-old man was given a community resolution.

Cainin Woodhead, 53, of The Saffrons, Burgess Hill, was charged with using threatening behaviour with intent to cause fear or provoke unlawful violence. He is due to appear at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 1 February 2024.