5th August 2026
Rhys Matcham, huntsman of the Puckeridge and Essex Hunt had his case discontinued in Colchester Magistrates Court on Wednesday 4th August 2026.
Whilst disappointing that the animal which was killed by his hounds in January 2026, will never receive justice, how ever this case strengthens resolve that the law as it stands is not fit for purpose and needs strengthening.
We urgently need a ban on so-called “trail hunting” – a smokescreen for actual hunting – and an introduction of a “recklessness clause” in order to protect wildlife and prevent these cruel deaths.
This is an absolute disgrace there is always plenty of evidence of what these evil bastards are doing. I hope Andy Burnham is going to do something about this I have already emailed but no reply as yet. These scum that hunt and shoot should be hung drawn and quartered. We need very strong laws and very strong punishments for these murdering law breaking filth.