Detectives have made a fresh appeal for information into an alleged assault on a hunt protestor during clashes after a meet.

Video stills have been released of five men police want to question over the incident at Crundale, near aSHFORD, following the Elham-based East Kent Hunt meeting on February 19, the day after the Government's hunting ban came in to force.

An anti-hunt supporter, also known as a hunt monitor, was taken to the William Harvey Hospital with a broken rib and bruising following the incident.

The investigation into the assault is being led by DS Andy Chapman of Weald police, who is calling upon the public to help identifying the men.

Rosy Alexander, Weald police spokesman, said: "Somebody must know who they are. They are extremely good pictures, very clear. We would urge anyone with information to come forward."

The film, taken by a hunt monitor, shows the victim being set upon by a group of men, in what police are calling a serious assault.

The video was initially given to the BBC which handed it over to the police.

It has been confirmed that members of East Kent Hunt do not know the men wanted for questioning.

The meeting saw East Kent Hunt legally exercise their hounds on land owned by Crundale resident David Holman. It was after the meeting had finished that the assault took place.

About 10 hunt monitors also attended the event.

DS Chapman added: "We are actively investigating this assault. We are appealing to any members of the public who recognise these men to contact Ashford police station on 01233 619188."