Two members of the Quantock Staghounds to stand trial for illegal deer hunting

Retired huntsman Richard Down of the Quantock Staghounds and former whipper-in Martin Watts are due to stand trial for illegally hunting a deer with dogs.

The case will be heard at Taunton Magistrates’ Court on 3rd February 2020.

The alleged incident took place on 18th March 2019 near Trendle Ring, near Bicknoller on the Quantock Hills in Somerset. This land is owned by the National Trust.

The case follows an investigation by Avon and Somerset Police based on evidence obtained by Hounds Off and Somerset Wildlife Crime.