My wife and I popped into Lewes on Boxing Day. When we got to the law courts we found the public footpath and the road blocked by a large crowd of people, horses and dogs.

The crowd and the riders were loud, intimidating and were seen drinking openly in the street.

I did not see any warnings or road closures in place.

Several riders seemed incapable of controlling their horses which were having difficulty getting a grip on the road surface.

Large dogs were roaming around unleashed. My wife suffers from high blood pressure and I am wary of horses and dogs. We thought it dangerous as there were young children in the crowd and there didn't appear to be any police or marshals to protect their safety.

The Lewes firework parade in comparison is always well organised and marshalled.

We also saw three ladies, surrounded by a crowd of people and riders on horseback. The three ladies were protesting against hunting. We thought hunting had been banned in 2005. Members of the crowd were shouting, ridiculing and scoffing at what they had to say. I was concerned for the ladies' safety as it looked to me as though some of the riders were deliberately riding into them.

I am surprised no one was injured.

My wife and I were shocked by what we saw. I recorded some images.

Was a temporary event notice served to the council and the police?

Should those present have been limited to 18 years of age or over with alcohol present and openly being consumed on the streets of Lewes? I thought town public areas had a local policy regarding the consumption of intoxicating liquor.

Were the police aware of this gathering?

If so, did they not think to attend?

If hunting is banned, why do riders still meet in a public place to ride through the public streets?

I am concerned that this may happen again and next time there may be a serious accident.

>li>P Robards, Griffiths Avenue, North Lancing