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."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article