POLICE are investigating an allegation that a fox was killed during a hunt in Dorset.

The League Against Cruel Sports said the fox was "chased" by hunting hounds under the control of the Portman Hunt during the incident near

Sturminster Newton on January 2.

It is believed between 20 to 30 people took part in the hunt which allegedly started from Southley Farm in Fifehead St Quintin.

It is claimed the killing of the fox was witnessed by hunt saboteurs who retrieved the "disembowelled" animal.

A spokesman for the Portman Hunt said: “The Portman Hunt operates within the law to comply with the Hunting Act 2004. 

“Despite this, the hunt – along with many others across the country – is regularly subjected to spurious allegations of illegal hunting as part of a wider animal rights agenda.

“The Hunt works closely with all of their landowners to ensure they respect the wishes of the people whose land they cross and will fully cooperate with the police with any enquiries relating to their hunting activities.”

Chris Luffingham, director of campaigns at the League Against Cruel Sports, said: “This brutal incident, in which a wild animal has lost its life after being torn apart by a pack of dogs, not only reflects on the hunt itself – but on anybody who allows them to continue operating.”

Dorset Police said: “This incident has been reported to us and we are investigating.”

A Dorset Police spokesperson said: “Dorset Police has a duty to remain impartial and ensure lawful and peaceful activity is upheld by both sides of the hunt.

"We will investigate any alleged breaches of the Hunting Act 2004 and other legislation and provide the information to the CPS to determine whether there is a case to take to court.”

Under the Hunting Act 2004, it is illegal to hunt wild mammals with dogs in England and Wales.

The League Against Cruel Sports said in light of the incident, it was calling on the National Trust to revoke a licence granted to Portman Hunt at Kingston Lacy.

A spokesperson for the National Trust said: "We don't allow illegal hunting on our land, and if there is clear evidence of illegal activity, then this should be reported to the police. Parliament’s Hunting Act allowed trail hunts to continue, where artificial scents, not foxes, are chased on set courses."

Anyone with information about the incident should contact Dorset Police quoting incident number 2:198.