I KNOW some people get hot under the collar about hunting with hounds, even if they have never been.

I go hunting at least once a week in the season and find it a great activity, rich in culture and art, language and skill. I love to see the well-turned out horses and riders from all backgrounds – the judge sharing a joke with the farmer. It is a sport that crosses all classes. Labour, of course, would tell you we are all toffs.

I went to state school and have just finished paying back my student loan after 10 years, so I'm pretty sure I'm not a toff. I have never ridden to hounds, but am one of the many foot followers. Again, the antis fail to target us, preferring our more visible friends on horses.

I've been lucky enough to help out with hounds in kennels. I've seen the great job the hunt does in picking up fallen stock from farms. I've enjoyed the many social events put on by hunts.

Long live the hunt!

Pete Lacy Southampton