Charges against Cumbrian huntsman are dropped

The Countryside Alliance welcomes the confirmation from the CPS that all charges relating to members of Cumbria's Melbreak hunt have been dropped.

Huntsman Edward Liddle had been charged under the Hunting Act and Dangerous Dogs Act after witnesses alleged that illegal hunting took place in Buttermere, Cumbria on 9 March.

Countryside Alliance director of campaigns Tim Bonner said: "Mr Liddle and the Melbreak cooperated fully with the police inquiries from the start and there was never any evidence that Mr Liddle had been in breach of either act, therefore we were surprised when Cumbria Constabulary chose to pursue their inquiries. It was even more inexplicable when the CPS then chose to bring charges against Mr Liddle.

"There was no chance that the case could ever have proceeded to a conviction and all it has achieved is a waste of police and court time and tax-payer's money and has put Mr Liddle through a completely unnecessary process.

"The Melbreak hunt has operated within the law since the Hunting Act came into force and has huge support from the local community. We are very confident that their activities are entirely legitimate."

For more information contact Tim Bonner on 07977 460811