AFTER around 200 years the Worcestershire Hunt is set to come to an abrupt end even though supporters are remaining defiant.

Their last legal hunt is set to take place tomorrow (Thursday) at Park Hall, Bradley Green, before the new Hunting Act comes into force on Friday, making the activity illegal.

However, supporters are determined to continue hunting as far as the law allows.

Ian Frank, Worcestershire Hunt secretary, said: "We will continue to hunt within the law as much as possible. We want to discredit the law and make it look pointless."

Under the act, stalking and flushing out is exempt if it is to prevent or reduce serious damage to livestock, other animals and growing timber and crops.

The hunting of rats and rabbits is also exempt from the act if it is on land owned by the hunter or where the hunter has permission from the landowner.

Worcestershire Hunt, believed to have started around 1813, will hold its first meeting after the new law comes in this Saturday at 11am at Chaddesley Race Course.

"We want to meet at places that are high profile to make people aware we are still around and supporting the hunt," said Mr Frank.

Also at the meeting on Saturday the hounds will be exercised.

Members also plan to continue meeting most Saturdays until the end of the season in March when they will access their options for the future.

It is an offence under the act to hunt wild mammals with dogs or to assist a hunt by permitting land that belongs to you for a hunt.

Anyone found guilty of breaking the act could face a fine, having their vehicles, equipment and animals seized or even arrest.

christopher.flavell@midlands.newsquest.co.uk