I AM totally opposed to the practice of hunting with dogs.

I believe that it is unnecessary, barbaric and should be banned.

The unfortunate animals, after being chased to exhaustion are then set upon by the pack, watched by the hunt as they writhe in agony gasping their last breath. How dare the hunters suggest that this 'sport' is not cruel or wrong!

I do not believe that the killing of any animal for any purpose is right, but if the 'culling' is inevitable, then, surely, in responsible hands, shooting is a more humane and effective means of control.

HEATHER FOGARTY, The Crescent, Cherry Tree, Blackburn.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.