APOLOGIES for addressing once again the issue of hunting but there are some aspects of this despicable sport that need to be re-visited.

Most people believe that, since hunting animals for sport is now illegal, the absence of any recognisable signs of foxhunting mean that it is not happening.

That, of course, is what the hunters wish to convey, although havoc caused by hounds on busy roads, for example, should raise some serious doubts to any onlooker.

Experienced hunt monitors can recognise all the signs of live quarry hunting and are, consequently, subject to a level of intimidation that has resulted in many abandoning their efforts to provide proof of law-breaking. The stalwarts who remain provide for the followers the closest alternative to the actual bloodsport being enjoyed by the hunters and they clearly relish their role as thugs and bullies.

Unfortunately, the police, so visible prior to the passing of the Hunting Act, with van-loads of officers ensuring that the hunters could hunt, sometimes appear reluctant to provide the same cover for hunt monitors.

More concern on their part for the hunted animals would equally benefit the monitors who are trying to secure evidence of law-breaking.

BEA BRADLEY, Cuxham Road, Watlington