THERE may have been a few chilly paws but it was also a chance for some welcome exercise as the East Devon hunt pack went out in the snow.

Ordinarily at this time of year, the hounds would be preparing for the annual festive meet but the event is in some doubt this year because of the freezing conditions.

A spokesman for the East Devon Hunt said: "A final decision has not yet been made.

"The weather has made it incredibly difficult in terms of transport to get everything mobilised.

"As it stands, I think it is highly unlikely that we will be able to have our annual meet.

"But if the snow begins to thaw, things may be very different. We will be taking a decision over the weekend."

Hunting traditionally does not take place on a Sunday so Boxing Day hunts are due to be held this year on Monday.

Several meets are due to go ahead and a list of planned events can be found at www.mfha.org.uk