OTTERY will kicked off 2009 to the sound of baying hounds as residents wake up to enjoy the annual East Devon Hunt today.

OTTERY will kicked off 2009 to the sound of baying hounds as residents wake up to enjoy the annual East Devon Hunt today.

The hunt, which has been a New Year's Day highlight in Ottery for decades, sees scores of people line the streets to see riders and dogs set off on a scent trail from The Square across nearby fields.

Joint master of the hunt for eleven years Michael Moore said that, weather permitting, Ottery's first event of 2009 promised to be a one of its highlights.

He added: "We have always had tremendous support from the town, and there are always strong crowds."

Read more about this year's hunt and see the photos in next week's Herald or go to www.sidmouthherald.co.uk .