AFTER working with horses and farm animals for more than 40 years, I witnessed the worst case of deliberate cruelty to animals that I have ever seen.

Surprisingly, it came from a group of people who claim to love and defend all animals from abuse and exploitation, particularly hunting with dogs.

The incident happened as the horses and hounds were moving off from the Boxing Day meet in Droitwich town centre.

About 50 anti-hunting campaigners screamed, shouted and used a loudspeaker which frightened the horses.

Two became so nervous that they almost trampled some of the hounds. Riders were spat on and horses had missiles thrown at them, not to mention the verbal abuse that was hurled at them when there were young children in the crowd.

If those behind this type of demonstration had the slightest interest in caring for animals they would never allow them to be tormented in such a way.

Going on past experience, and having no reason to think that the situation will improve next year, surely the presence of an RSPCA inspector is essential if the animals are to be protected from the abuse I was forced to watch this Boxing Day.

I would also call into question the wisdom of police tactics in holding back the hunting supporters, all 600 of them, thereby allowing them to be heckled by the anti-hunt brigade.

AUDREY STEEL,

Inkberrow,

near Worcester.