the first criminal conviction of the hunting season is that of Simon Upton, huntsman of the essex union foxhounds; he was convicted on tuesday 18th october of three counts of assault and was ordered to pay £1,555 in fines and compensation.

he initially denied the charges, but with video evidence showing him charging into sabs and striking at least one female sab over the head with his whip proving his guilt, he decided to change his plea. wise move.

this has been widely reported in the mainstream media, check them out for more details or check www.huntsabs.org.uk for reaction.