Drag hunting is a more humane alternative

As usual at this time of year, the papers are full of pictures and colour pieces extolling the alleged virtues of fox hunting.

Vivid descriptions of fun- loving spectators gathering in town and village squares to watch the splendidly attired ladies and gentlemen on their steaming mounts clip-clopping past, happy hounds clustered about them, tails wagging in anticipation.

Journalists and columnists conjure up images of cheery hunting folk sipping punch or burgundy from stirrup cups at the end of their cross-country adventure.