CHORLEY MP, Lindsay Hoyle, has expressed a "grave concern" over the sale of St Bernard dogs to China for dog meat.

Mr Hoyle has tabled a commons motion to bolster opposition to this growing trend.

St Bernard dogs are being exported to China from Europe where a puppy can fetch up to £3,000.

Discovery of the trade was made by the World Society fro the Protection of Animals (WSPA) who are backing Lindsay's call for action.

Mr Hoyle said: "The sale of St Bernard dogs for dog meat is distressing. It should not be allowed to continue. Together with dog owners, the Government and the WSPA, I believe that the dogs should not be sold to China for the purpose of this trade. I hope the campaign receives a lot of support so that an effective campaign can be launched to protect the St Bernard breed".