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Hunt supporters barrack MP
FOX hunters from across the area attempted to hound out Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe when she stepped in to their hunting territory.
More than 70 members of the Burton, Brocklesby, South Wold and Grove and Rufford hunts picketed the entrance to the White Heather at Caenby Corner last Friday where she was addressing local Tories at their constituency dinner.
She was targeted as one of the few Conservatives who had voted for the ban on hunting that will take effect next February.
John Green, joint master of the Burton Hunt, said it was then 'a right kick in the teeth to bring her in to the heart of our country after the Conservatives had courted us to help to campaign for them.'
Mr Green, Julie Barker, an employee of the hunt and racing trainer William Morgan met Miss Widdecombe privately for 30 minutes before she was forced to drive past the supporters shouting 'shame on you'.
Mr Green said: "I thought it was insensitive to say the least.
"We argued her case and she explained her stance and it seems that animal welfare doesn't even bother her. She just does not like the idea of a chase and on that basis thinks hunting should be stopped.
"I'm just so furious that MPs are currying our favour to help canvas for them, and then they bring this woman in to our midst.
"Everybody has a right to freedom of speech but we just think it's very insensitive to invite these people so close to the ban having been voted through."
Adam Duguid, deputy chairman of the constituency Conservative Party, said: "no harm was intended."
"I am a supporter of hunting and I think pretty well every member of the party locally is too but this meeting was arranged for over a year, well before we even knew there would be a ban or a vote.
"The Conservative Party respects differing views as welcomes debate but we did not mean to be insensitive."
What are YOUR views, email the Editor, Jason Hippisley:
jason.hippisley@jpress.co.uk
For more local news get your copy of Wednesday's Market Rasen Mail.
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Weather for Market Rasen
Sunday 05 February 2012
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