ANTI-hunt campaigners have criticised a senior New Forest clergyman for "blessing" a group of foxhounds.

The Vicar of Lyndhurst, the Rev Peter Murphy performed the ceremony during his annual open-air service at Bolton's Bench.

Mr Murphy has come under fire from members of the New Forest Animal Protection Group, which is campaigning against hunting.

Today it emerged that the group wrote to Mr Murphy in a last-ditch attempt to persuade him to cancel the event.

The letter said: "We welcome the blessing of animals, but feel the barbaric and disgusting bloodsport of hunting wild creatures with a pack of dogs should not be seen to be supported by the Church.

"Hunting is despised by more than 80 per cent of the public, including those who live in the New Forest.

"Cruelty must not be wrapped in clerical cloth or hidden behind the teachings of Jesus Christ."

The letter was written by the group's chairman, Ken James, who sent a copy to the Bishop of Southampton, the Rt Rev Jonathan Gledhill.

The dogs were owned by the New Forest Hounds, who have recently resumed hunting after serving a one-month ban imposed after allegations that they damaged a badger sett.

Mr Murphy said three pairs of hounds were present at the Bolton's Bench service, which was more of a thanksgiving than a blessing.

He said: "I've been in the ministry for 37 years and have never shut the door on anyone."