I have lived in the British countryside all my life and I have never been able to understand how any right thinking person can possibly enjoy seeing an animal hunted by other animals and then torn apart.

My concern is not only for the hunted animals but also for those who participate in this activity.

Indoctrination to such cruelty from a young age surely breeds intolerance and immunity to violence.

I am delighted that later this month MPs will have the opportunity to vote on an options Bill that will decide the future of hunting.

Only a ban will prevent cruelty to animals. We cannot allow animals to be torn apart in the name of sport and still call ourselves civilised.

As we start the 21st century we look back to our predecessors who did what was morally and ethically right for society in banning previously accepted activities such as cock fighting, bull baiting and dog fighting.

-Sir Patrick Moore, Selsey, Sussex