A HEREFORDSHIRE hunt has apologised after a herd of alpacas was attacked by its hounds.

Two of Rachel Simon’s alpacas needed stitches after being cornered by hounds from the North Ledbury Hunt.

The hunt was forbidden from entering the paddock in Suckley, near Bromyard, where the animals were attacked at 8am on Saturday (Sep 24).

Rachel and her partner ran into the field in their pyjamas in a desperate attempt to force the dogs away from the alpacas.

Ms Simon said several dogs tried to bring down a two-year-old alpaca called Louis, who was bitten several times.

“He had several bites to his neck and body and has needed a few nasty stitches to his leg wounds,” said Ms Simon.

“The dogs were running all over the fields randomly attacking the alpacas, biting them, barking and chasing them.”

Valerie Allfrey, joint master, said in a statement that the North Ledbury Hunt regretted the incident and the injuries caused.

“The Hunt is paying for any veterinary expenses which were required at the time,” the statement added.

More in this week’s Hereford Times.