TV naturalist and campaigner Chris Packham has received huge online support after branding those involved in a Devon hunt "sociopathic savages".
The wildlife show presenter criticised members of the Tiverton Foxhounds after the town's council said the planned Boxing Day hunt was "not welcome".
Packham labelled participants in the Tiverton hunt as "ethically and morally bankrupt" and said they were "normalising cruelty".
His statement was delivered during the Tiverton Town Council session and helped sway a vote declaring the hunt "not welcome", although it is still likely to go ahead.
The British Hound Sports Association (BHSA) and Countryside Alliance responded by stressing trail hunting is lawful and properly organised, and said Pakham had used "language that borders on extremism".
Hunting animals, including foxes, with dogs was banned in Great Britain more than 20 years ago.
Trail hunting, using a scent laid on land, is legal but the Government has been reported to be considering its abolition.
The Tiverton row was covered by DevonLive and has sparked a fierce debate online with more than 1,000 comments, split between those against hunts and those supporting the activity - with a huge number backing Packham.
Among those responding to DevonLive's story and supporting the TV presenter was Edmund Pendrous, who said: "Chris Packham has got more guts than the entire fox hunting mob put together. He's a national hero, whether or not you believe in what he stands for."
Hannah Minns wrote: "Thank goodness for Chris Packham. He speaks for the majority of the country whose voices wouldn't count in the same way."
Jane McGee said: "I applaud him. Fox hunting is an outdated illegal barbaric so-called sport causing deliberate suffering to animals for entertainment or leisure. It is morally wrong and outdated in a modern society."
Diane Rockliffe wrote: "Good for him speaking up about these cruel practices. Support him fully."
Elaine Spencer also praised Packham and asked: "What sort of inhuman waste of space could get pleasure from hunting down and killing a beautiful creature just for their own perverted entertainment?"
Carol Stenning posted: "Well said Chris, this cruel and ancient 'sport' needs to end. Foxes are not a pest to be hunted or shot. If you cannot live in a world with wildlife because they intrude on your land, then you will eventually kill every form of wildlife."
Karen Johnson said: "Nothing but admiration for this guy. Your voice speaks volumes. Please carry on bringing wildlife and their care to the forefront."
However a large number also criticised Packham and pointed out that trail hunting is allowed under the law and is not designed to lead to the death of foxes.
Jules Walker stressed the animals are not hunted during trail events and said: "Trail hunts are perfectly legal and supports many small businesses and gives like minded people a chance to exercise horses, dogs and themselves."
And Sally Harmer said: "The hunt doesn't chase foxes. It's a trail hunt."
Ian Vetier posted: "Let the sound of the hounds never die."
Brian Herworth wrote: "Long live the hunts."
Paul Thurston said: "Nothing like a good old fox hunt, great social day out."
Douglas Kay posted: "These boxing day hunt meetings should not be stopped as they attract 250,000 people."