A FEW hundred people turned out in Carmarthen on Monday morning to cheer the riders of the traditional new year's county hunt.

The dozen riders of Carmarthenshire Hunt, with their hounds weaving and chasing among the crowd, trotted into Guildhall Square where they were met with applause and cheers.

Hunt master Mike Watts, dressed in a red tunic, doffed his black riding helmet to the onlookers. His speech was all but drowned out however by about 20 anti-hunt protestors who, armed with placards, started singing behind him.

Mr Watts said to the crowd: "I just want to say — but I can't get a word in edgeways — happy new year and to thank you for supporting the hunt each year."

Referring to the protestors, he added: "I know that Carmarthenshire Hunt has acted in a proper manner — and manners mean so much."

A few minutes earlier, the riders had paused outside the Boar's Head pub in Lammas Street where they were served a glass of punch and sandwiches as they sat in their saddles.

Landlady Meinir Hunter said she had been serving the members of the hunt for 20 years, 10 of those from the Blue Boar.

She said: "My uncle used to be a master with the hunt years ago and I remember watching it with my father when I was young.

"We serve them a traditional punch. It's an old recipe a friend gave to me from another hunt and I've used it ever since."

With the blowing of a hunting horn to round up the excited hounds, the riders then headed out of town.

Their route, following a trail laid out the day before, had been kept secret from the hunt monitors, who follow the riders to make sure no foxes or other wildlife are hurt.

Michael Sharratt, of the League Against Cruel Sports, said: "We find it abominable and we do not want a repeal of the hunting act."

David Peterson, of West Wales Animal Aid, added: "Seventy-five per cent of the population are against the cruelty of blood sports. Just because it's tradition — that does not make it right."