Could this have been the last Boxing Day hunt for the Four Burrow hounds? Judging by the number of hunt supporters who arrived at the top of Carn Brea to see riders set off on their traditional hunt the answer would be a firm no.

Absence in the Queen's speech to Parliament in November of any mention of hunting delighted hunt supporters. Many, including officials, felt that if they could get over the next 12 months without Parliament taking the issue any further there was a good chance fox hunting would continue. A Countryside Alliance poll showing there has been a drop in those keen on banning the sport also lifted their morale.

But Falmouth and Camborne MP Candy Atherton. who has made her anti-hunting views very clear, is confident the issue will be discussed in the new year and eventually all forms of hunting will be banned. "I have received the strongest assurances from ministers that it will come up. I have discussed the matter with Peter Hain, Leader of the House, and we are confident that it will be discussed again soon. We are in the last legislative hurdle. Hunt supporters are hoping for something that will not happen."

At Carn Brea on Boxing Day, 40-plus riders led by master Paul Hancock met in blustery conditions. They were supported by one of the biggest crowds in recent years - and not one protester in sight.