HARDY walkers, bikers and huntsmen all found different ways to get around Gloucestershire on New Year's Day.

Members of the Heythrop Hunt gathered together in The Square, in Stow-on-the-Wold, for the traditional hunt.

Supporters sensed 2011 could be a fresh start for the sport under the coalition.

Hunt secretary, Guy Avis, said: "Hunt master Richard Sumner said hopefully this Government might get the Hunting Act repealed.

"It's unworkable as it was thrown together quickly."

Mr Avis said support for the pastime had never been stronger and young and old had turned out.

"We have a terrific lot of children and our Pony Club is huge.

"About 100 children come out regularly with the hunt on ponies and we have a lot of young people in their 20s and 30s, so it ensures the tradition is carried on."

The foxhound pack took part in a drag hunt, taking in Swell, Longborough, Condicote and Slaughter, supported by followers in cars.

In Bishop's Cleeve, bikers revved up in style to see in a roaring New Year. Around 80 motorcycles descended on the King's Head for the Cotswold Bike Meet.

Enthusiastic landlord Mark Hodges gave them a hearty greeting.

"They like to start the year in full throttle," he said. "They used to meet here on Wednesdays and this time they chose us for New Year's Day.

"Our staff are really friendly and we go out of our way to accommodate them.

"Members turn up to look at each others' bikes and get a pork bap or hot dog, tea or coffee or nice, hot mulled wine – for those on the back of the bikes, not the front!"

The bikers gathered from noon to 3pm, exchanging stories and planning for the year ahead.

Mark added: "They all have their leathers on and they're a lovely bunch of all different ages and with a good mix of females, mostly riding pillion."

During the summer, the club meets every Wednesday, at pubs across the county, and holds a raffle for the air ambulance.

In Woodmancote, 60 walkers and six well-behaved dogs put their best feet and paws forward for the Woodmancote Society's traditional New Year's Day walk.

The group stepped out from the Apple Tree pub at 11am, led by Colin Wood, heading for the top of Cleeve Hill.

They returned to complimentary hot mince pies at 1.15pm.

Woodmancote Society member June Beaumont said: "This walk is something special and it's expected of us now.

"It was a good turnout seeing that 53 people had been at our barn dance in the village hall the night before.

"Our society was set up 30 years ago to welcome newcomers and keep a community spirit.

"We organise a monthly event, such as a barbecue, theatre trip, quiz or cheese and wine evening, and lead two walks a year – on New Year's Day and in midsummer.

"We always start the walks at the Apple Tree because they're very good to us. One year I organised hot mulled wine before the walk, but people were too keen to stay in the public house!"

For more details on the society, contact Mrs Beaumont on 01242 674197.