Hunters on Saturday took to the streets across the island with a list of demands which they say would allow for the practice of hunting in Cyprus to be better facilitated.

Among other things, they asked for more areas to train hunting dogs, protection from “activists who disrupt activities”, restrictions on the “uncontrolled” licencing of solar farms in the countryside, and stricter penalties for poaching.

The Troodos roundabout was blocked for an hour by protesters, with other gatherings taking place at the Rizoelia roundabout near Aradippou in the Larnaca district.

The protesting party released a statement which said that “a failed management programme is being followed, which has led to the impoverishment of the game”.

They were joined by fishermen, who called for an area of sea near the Larnaca district villages of Mari and Zygi to be allocated for fishing.

The protesters warned of an “escalation” of measures if their demands are not met.