THE season of goodwill is well and truly over for British wildlife with the resumption of hunting.

In Lancashire, this will no doubt mean a return to the breaking up of timid hares for recreational purposes, as carried out by the Holcombe Harriers and at the Waterloo Cup in February.

At least after the Burns Report, hunt apologists cannot claim hare hunting is in any way necessary or in the hare's own welfare. Hare hunting and coursing are for people who simply derive pleasure and excitement at seeing a timid animal's life at stake. What appeal can be made to these people who would rather watch the breaking up of hares on Boxing Day than spend their time with friends and relatives?

G METCALFE, Moorhey

Crescent, Bamber Bridge.