IT sounds sinister. But the Real Countryside Alliance is clearly run by people with a sense of humour.

The creation of a giant huntsman to ride the white horse of Kilburn was a wonderful publicity stunt. It took a great deal of effort, 160ft of carpet and far more imagination than went into the petty vandalism of York road signs with anti-hunt slogans.

The alliance even gave a donation towards the cost of a clean-up.

Their crafty artwork has certainly brought a smile to many faces this week, and that cannot do their cause any harm.

Updated: 10:26 Thursday, August 29, 2002