Carlisle MP Eric Martlew has joined those who have criticised Prince Charles for going out with the Blencathra Foxhounds at Nook Farm, Rosthwaite, near Keswick yesterday. Mr Martlew said: “I think he is doing more than hunting. He is making a statement as well. He knows what he is doing. He knows the majority of MPs are against it. It’s a statement he is making but it won’t change anyone’s mind. I don’t think he’s concerned that most people think it should be banned.”

A confused Countryside Alliance regional director Tom Fell claimed that "Hunting has never been more popular. It’s a welcome boost for Cumbria and gives it a shot in the arm." Obviously if hunting is as popular as Mr Fell would have us believe it wouldn't need 'a shot in the arm.' Prince Charles appears to have waited until Mr Fell was out of the county, attending the Waterloo Cup, before visiting Cumbria.