Police have launched an inquiry after reports emerged that a fox lost its life during a hunting activity in the Cotswolds area, with officers calling on witnesses to share any evidence they may possess.

Gloucestershire Constabulary has disclosed that it is examining accusations that the animal perished on the afternoon of Wednesday, March 11, subsequent to being chased through Condicote.

According to Three Counties Hunt Saboteurs, campaigners located a blood stain within a residential garden during an event overseen by the Heythrop Hunt, whose base is situated in Swinbrook, a short distance from Burford.

Video recorded by the campaign group and seen by this outlet displayed numerous hounds exhibiting red staining while they lapped from receptacles and garden containers.

Legislation enacted in 2004 determines that pursuing a wild mammal using dogs breaches the law, save for instances that fall within permitted exemptions such as particular forms of tracking or driving game.

The Labour government has signaled plans to outlaw trail hunting as part of its proposed animal welfare reforms.

Officers have indicated that residents can lodge information electronically via the relevant form, referencing 252 dated March 11.

A force representative confirmed that officers received a report concerning an alleged unlawful fox hunt in Condicote near Stow-on-the-Wold on Wednesday, March 11, regarding a fox being killed. Enquiries are continuing and police would welcome any information from anyone connected to this incident.

Representatives for the Heythrop Hunt have been approached for comment.