TWO men have been charged following alleged assaults and thefts at the Blackmore and Sparkford Vale hunt.

Dorset Police received a report on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 that a person had been assaulted and equipment stolen in the area of Load Lane, Hilfield.

A 33-year-old male from the Colehill area has been charged with theft and assault.

Dorset Police received another report on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 that a person had been assaulted, another had equipment stolen and a further person was the victim of an attempted theft in the area of Great Head lane, Dorchester.

A 33-year-old male from the Colehill area has been charged with theft and a 34-year-old male from the Poole area has been charged with an assault and attempted theft.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police Rural Crime Team said: "After a detailed investigation into reports of assault and thefts at the Blackmore and Sparkford Vale hunt; we can now confirm that we have charged two people.

"They are both due to appear at Weymouth Magistrates Court on February 16. They have conditions not to attend any hunt-related activity."