Official results indicate that the “yes” camp has won the spring hunting referendum, which means that the hunting practice in spring will continue.

The yes camp has obtained 50.4% of the votes cast. The no camp obtained 49.6%.

One hour after the sorting of the votes begane, the hunters' lobby declared that it has won the referendum long before the official results were made public.

The no camp led by Saviour Balzan conceded defeat but put on a brave face saying that the referendum shows that there is a growing sentiment in favour of the environment.

Asked by The Malta Independent if she feels that PM Muscat's insistence that he will vote yes made a difference, SHout spokesman Moira Delia said that "it did not help".

FKNK secretary general Lino Farrugia urged all hunters and their supporters to remain calm in the situation and celebrate peacefully.

Carcades were held in various localities and shots of celebrations were heard.