AS the Countryside Alliance steps up its campaign to stand up to the

vociferous anti-foxhunting brigade, I am of a mind to actively support them and to join, for the first time in my life, any demonstration on the streets.

I have no particular axe to grind about foxhunting, but I do care about the freedom to go about my daily life without vicious minority groups dictating to me.

I feel very strongly about cats destroying birds in my garden, and object to dog mess on the footpath, but I would never consider actively campaigning against inconsiderate animal lovers.

I believe that tolerance in all things is necessary if we are to maintain and enjoy our freedoms. There are so many other important issues other than the rights or wrongs of a minority sport like foxhunting.

It is time for the silent minority to stand up in the face of such a venomous onslaught to protect our right to live and let live.

DAVID FISHER

Colton Road, Shrivenham