HUNDREDS turned out to see the spectacle of the Boxing Day hunts in Brocklesby and Louth.

The centuries-old tradition continued yesterday, with onlookers braving the cold winter temperatures to see the horses and hounds.

Led by the Earl of Yarborough, the hunt in Brocklesby has been taking place on his family's estate for more than 400 years.

Hunt secretary Karen Pickering (43), from Ulceby, said: "We have tremendous support from the car followers and the mounted followers, who are turned out immaculately.

"People enjoy coming to see the traditional scene and I enjoy going through the beautiful countryside and the estate, which we are so lucky to be able to ride across."

Lisa Collins (36) travelled from Market Stainton, near Horncastle, with her husband Tom (41) and sons Archie (eight) and Charlie (seven), to see the hunt.

She said: "I have been hunting since I was four, but I don't ride on Boxing Day as we usually have all the family around at Christmas.

"I have come to support what I think is a fabulous tradition."

In Louth, South Wold hunt master Nick Ashcroft said: "This is the 151st year we have had the Boxing Day hunt.

"It always attracts a good crowd because it's a part of Christmas here in Louth.

"The Boxing Day hunt is very much a spectacle, and a part of the long-running tradition."

The turnout was particularly high at the start of the hunt this year.

Gloria Kernodle, visiting from North Carolina said: "I have been to England before, but this is my first Christmas here.

"It's absolutely wonderful to see – I love horses and wanted to come and see them."

She was taken to the event by Lindi Holbrook, from Louth, who said: "I wanted to make sure my friends saw the spectacle – but I don't agree with the broader issue of killing foxes."

Colin Thompson (35) had come to the event from Old Leake with wife Angela and son Oliver (two). He said they were walking with the hunt.

"We are hunt supporters and have gone out with the South Wold hunt in the past," he explained.

"Oliver loves the to see the dogs, as we have some at home as well."