POLICE were called to Gatcombe after a verbal clash between the Isle of Wight Foxhounds and hunt saboteurs yesterday (Saturday).  

The saboteurs said they were insulted and threatened near the kennels, but said the police were called out by the hunters.

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson said: "We were called at 8.24am on Saturday with reports of a public order incident involving two groups of people near St Olave’s Church in Gatcombe.

"Police attended and spoke with the parties involved.

"No further action is being taken by police."

A Facebook group, Wight Hunt Sabs, said a member of the hunters had called the police out, and added: "Ironic that they called the police regarding us and ended up being arrested themselves."

While police didn't originally say in their press statement that any arrests were made, they have since confirmed there was an arrest, following an enquiry by the County Press.

In the UK it is illegal to hunt foxes with a pack of dogs. However, hunts can use dogs to simulate hunting, for example in drag or trail hunting.

Today, the Isle of Wight Hunt supported IW Grand National and Ashey Scurry is taking place.