Sir, Apologies to those who had hoped to never again see a letter about hunting, however, although the law to ban hunting with hounds was passed with the strong approval of the majority of the electorate, unfortunately recently viewed hunt activity suggests to experienced hunt monitors that there may be ground to question the legitimacy of present day 'autumn hunting'.

Even uncommitted observers might well query the need for terrier men with their terriers to be present, along with the adherence to the past requirement for very early morning hunt activity, exactly in keeping with the times for cub-hunting prior to the ban and why hunt monitors should be continually hassled and obstructed by hunt followers.

Hunting wild animals is and has been for many decades, the sport of a minority, who were generally expected to be of sufficient education and moral reliability to accept that the laws of the land must be obeyed. It is disturbing, therefore, but also sad, that some within that minority would appear to consider themselves to be above the law. The police are relying on hunt monitors and the public to supply them with evidence of illegal hunting. Please, if you suspect that this law is being broken, contact the police or Hunt Crimewatch (0845 330 8486).

Bea Bradley, Watlington