The prince (pictured at the hunt) joined 80 others on horseback

The Prince joined the Beaufort Hunt, near Tetbury in Gloucestershire, close to the Highgrove home of his father, Prince Charles.

He was joined by about 80 members of the Beaufort on horseback, with more than 50 cars following behind.

The Bill to ban hunting went through Parliament last November and will come into effect on 18 February.

Some pro-hunting groups have warned that civil disobedience could follow if the Bill becomes law.

The Beaufort Hunt, which operates in Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, has been running since the 17th century.

Jo Aldridge, spokeswoman for the hunt, said: "I can confirm Prince William joined us for the meet."