Mr Maugham has apologised for upsetting anyone after "despatching" the animal.

RSPCA investigating lawyer Jolyon Maugham who killed fox with a baseball bat

The League Against Cruel Sports said it will continue to lobby MPs to strengthen the Hunting Act.

Thousands ride out for hunts as campaigners call for tougher laws

Paul Oliver and his partner, kennel maid Hannah Rose, had both denied any wrongdoing.

The incident allegedly took place during a trail hunt in Huxley, near Chester.

The prime minister has abandoned her manifesto pledge after receiving a "clear message" after June's election. 

A survey found 70% of hunts had more women and 54% had more young people than they did 10 years ago, the Countryside Alliance said.


Trail hunting, where a scent is laid for hounds and the hunt to follow, has been widely practised since the 2005 ban on fox hunting. 

The Countryside Alliance say hunts are a big success but the League Against Cruel Sports say fox hunting is supported by a minority.

An Ipsos MORI poll, commissioned by the League Against Cruel Sports (LACS), found 84% of the public do not want a return to fox hunting.

The SNP will break its own rule about not voting on matters which concern only England and Wales by voting against the fox hunting bill.

Labour has called on the SNP to vote against Conservative plans to amend the law on fox hunting in England and Wales on Wednesday.