WITH reference to the emotive claims that are being bandied about with regard to hunting, I would like to add my own experiences to this matter.
A few years ago I ran a smallholding a few miles from North Tawton. There I kept a few sheep, a dozen ducks, three geese and about 30 free-range chickens.
I had, understandably, problems with foxes which I kept under control with a gun, fencing and good husbandry. The major problems came when a hunt was held anywhere locally.
Perhaps the fox they were chasing was despatched, but other foxes in surrounding territories were put out and moved away from their home ranges temporarily.
On one occasion this caused the death of nine ducks, on another all of my geese and several times, too many times, a large number of my chickens.
My visits to the battery farm to rescue the 'escapees' to make up my flock became tedious.
After nine years the battle became too much and I gave up.
The local foxes were never a serious problem and were never controlled by the hunt. It was only when they hunted in surrounding areas and disturbed the neighbouring foxes that I had any serious problems.
To say that the hunt controls foxes is utter rubbish.
Peter Barnes
8 Barkers Way
North Tawton