IT WAS remarkably interesting to read Adam Trimingham’s article on the National Trust and his 40-year life membership, not just because it was a comprehensive account, but what he omitted to mention (“National Trust still has vital role to play”, The Argus, March 3). 

He contrasts the success of the National Trust and the troubles that success has brought with skirmishes with some of its members over somewhat trivial issues, such as whether nudists should be allowed on some of the beaches it owns in Dorset. 

Adam says he joined the trust because of its unique power to declare any of its land inalienable, which means not even the government can overrule it. 

Yet, surprisingly, he omits to mention the trust turning a blind eye to illegal hunting on its land. 

Hunting continues under the guise of "trail" hunting, something the trust licenses in spite of the views of tens of thousands of members who voted for it to stop, but were thwarted by a fist full of discretionary votes cast by the chair. 

Surely, stopping hunting on trust land would be a worthy use of the "unique power" that persuaded Adam to maintain his 40-year membership?  

He reminds us that the trust is increasingly split between the old and rather conservative members, presumably Adam includes himself in this cohort, and the radical newcomers who feel the whole administration needs a shake-up.  This shake-up cannot come soon enough.  

Following the hunt webinar expose of intentionality to ignore the law, the trust has taken the decision to pause trail hunting on its land and will not be granting any new licences for the remainder of the season. 

May I suggest that all members, including Adam, now press for this temporary suspension to be made permanent. 

David Hammond

North Court

Hassocks