AUGUST sees the start of cub hunting, a nasty side of the sport which hunters like to keep hidden from the public.

Foxhounds are not fox killers by nature so new hounds have to be given a taste for blood and trained in the art of killing foxes.

Very early in the morning horses and their riders will form a circle around an area of woodland where cubs are known to live.

The earth will be dug out and the terrified cubs trying to flee will be driven back by the circle of hunters.

The young hounds will then be encouraged to maul the five or six-month-old cubs, who may take several minutes to die.

Up to 10,000 cubs are killed this way each year.

Of course, not all foxhounds make the grade. Hunts routinely destroy foxhound puppies that take no interest in hunting.

In addition, it is unusual for hunts to keep any dog for more than six to eight years, as they are considered too old to hunt.

Many thousands are shot each year.

Horses too will be replaced if they are not up to the hunt.

To help finish this barbaric pastime contact The National Anti-Hunt Campaign, PO Box 66, Stevenage, Herts SG1 2YR for information and a campaign pack.

(Mrs) M HARRISON

Swindon Animal Concern

Beaulieu Close

Toothill

Swindon