Two men to appear in court over fox hunt investigation

Two men have been summoned to appear in court following claims a fox was killed during a hunt on New Year's Day.

The 44-year-old and a 64-year-old, who have not been named, are accused of hunting a wild animal with dogs.

It is alleged to have taken place during the Fitzwilliam Hunt - which is one of Britain's oldest having been formed during the reign of Richard II.

The hunt takes place over 600 square miles of land between Stamford, Lincs., and Higham Ferrers, Cambs. It is claimed the fox was killed when the meet reached the village of Elton, near Peterborough.

The 44-year-old man is also charged with causing unnecessary suffering to an animal.

Both men, from Peterborough, Cambs., will appear at Peterborough Magistrates' Court on July 27.