19th October 2026
Police are investigating reports that a fox was illegally killed during a meeting of the Quorn Hunt near Melton Mowbray on Friday.
Members of Northants Hunt Saboteurs – an animal rights group – say they observed the incident using a drone camera and they reported it to Leicestershire Police.
The group has released footage which they say shows hounds chasing and killing the fox between barns at Sanham Farm at Kirby Bellars.
The film appears to show hounds cornering a fox into the farmyard, where they kill the animal.
At this point, the anti-hunt group says, two men join the hounds and the fox’s body can be seen in the hands of one of them while the hounds bite at the body – an incident the campaigners are calling a ‘tug-of-war killing’.
He alleged that the killing of foxes by hunting hounds was widespread, adding ‘its not often we see the stark reality played out quite this clearly’.
A spokesperson for Leicestershire Police said: “An investigation is taking place following a report that a fox was killed on land off Thorpe Satchville Road in Kirby Bellars on Friday (16 October).
“The incident was reported to police just after 8.15am.
“Officers were told the fox had been killed by dogs as part of a hunt.
“No arrests have been made at this time.”
The Melton Times has sought comment from the Quorn Hunt about the incident and is awaiting a response.
Hunts say they play a vital role in preserving the countryside and supporting rural businesses and communities.
Firstly change their name Quorn is a vegan food. Secondly why no arrests???This scum were breaking the law and should have been arrested for that. What the hell is up with this government about banning ALL hunting Andy Burnham is not what I expected he seems more concerned with what is going on abroad than here. 22 years now breaking the law lets all go out and break the law and see what happens????????????????????????????