A police officer responding to a brawl at Avon Vale Hunt has come under fire after it was alleged she is a member of the organisation.
It’s claimed a female PC captured on video attending the scene of a disorder involving riders and protesters in Lacock on Monday (27 December) is part of the Avon Vale Hunt.
A photograph taken from the officer’s Instagram account shows her riding a horse, believed to be part of the hunting organisation on a previous occasion.
There are concerns her response to the large brawl could have been biased.
A spokesperson for Wiltshire Hunt Saboteurs said: “A police officer a fully signed up fox hunter with the Avon Vale Hunt, tasked by Wiltshire Police to manage the Avon Vale Hunt Protest.
“Does it get more corrupt than this? Enquiry and sacking now.
“People were hurt by these thugs – her friends as she walked away.”
Former police commissioner candidate for Wiltshire, Liz Webster reacted to the allegation on Twitter, claiming it was “very concerning”.
She added: “Clearly Wiltshire Police need to step up and sort this out. Sweeping it under the carpet only assures more trouble building.
“If people were assaulted there have to be investigations and action to uphold the rule of law.”
Videos of the incident emerged on social media, showing both protesters and hunt riders and supporters throwing punches – with many people assaulted in the fight.
The Instagram account has since been deactivated.
In an earlier statement, a Wiltshire Police spokesperson said: “We were aware of a planned local hunt in Lacock today and officers attended at around 11am when concerns were raised about tensions between those involved in the hunt and protestors.
“Officers remained on the scene to manage the two groups and they had dispersed by around 12.30pm.
“At this stage no arrests have been made but our enquiries are continuing.”
