How pleased we are with the threat of a cull lifted to the remaining badgers.

Many groups, large and small, worked hard to lobby Defra over this incident, including ourselves, and all are delighted with the outcome.

We are, of course, upset by the loss of the two badgers. There are reasons still to come to light as to why this situation got so far and we will be seeking answers to ensure there will be no repeats.

While we understand the anger of the residents and groups involved, we need to remain focused on the good deeds Defra is doing, working to reform the 1911 Animal Protection Act, which will help improve the lives of hundreds and thousands of animals.

In addition, while we press on with the campaign to ban hunting with dogs, we should remember much has been achieved for animals under this Labour government.

Fur farming banned, whales continuing to be protected from commercial hunting, the new wildlife crime unit and the pet passport are just some of the many things Labour has achieved for animals.

-Gary Hills, Labour Animal Welfare Society, Bridge Street, Walsall