IN HIS letter to the SA of October 31, Tim Bonner does his best to try to persuade the public of the need to continue with the hunting of foxes, deer and hares with large packs of hounds, closely followed of course by the hunting and shooting fraternity.

Perhaps he could explain why such large packs of hounds are needed to chase a small animal then have it ripped to pieces and call this act the humane controlling of wild animals?

Even if the fox goes to ground, the petrified animal is then dug out by the terrier men and stands no chance of survival.

So the hunting fraternity are once again determined to carry out this so-called sport and thumb their noses at the law like small children who can’t have everything their way.

If the control of wild animals is so essential why can’t a marksman be used to despatch them or would the hunting fraternity lose their fun chasing a small animal and seeing it ripped to pieces?

I was under the impression hares were in decline but if so would that really worry these people? I very much doubt it.

In conclusion, I would like to add that until recently most of my life was spent living in the country and I have kept hens and bantams and never lost one to a fox because I made sure they were properly housed.

I still go out each evening and feed the local foxes to ensure they stay fit and healthy.

R ALBRIGHTON Tamworth Drive Swindon