PENDLE MP Gordon Prentice has attacked hare coursing as a barbaric sport.

He condemned the running of the Waterloo Cup which takes place at Altcar, Merseyside this week.

The event involves two dogs competing in a test of speed and agility in pursuit of a live hare.

Mr Prentice has long been a strong advocate for banning the event along with other forms of hunting with dogs.

He asked: "What sort of a person would want to watch animals suffer in this way? I find it astounding.

"The terrified hares are made to run for their lives to provide 'entertainment'. In this day and age it can only be seen as barbaric."