‘MAJORITY are in favour of a shoot ban’, Ilkley Gazette August 28, was a misleading cover for a dismally devised ‘survey’. Ask perverse questions and you get perverse answers.

If Ban Bloodsports on Ilkley Moor had asked visitors questions such as:

Are you happy to see a healthy population of grouse on Ilkley Moor? Would you like to see more heathers, bilberry and herbs and less bracken? Do you favour a variety of habitats supporting a diversity of wildlife, including lapwing, curlew, stonechat and meadow pipit?

Respondents would have massively answered in the affirmative, which actually makes a positive case for grouse moor management and keepering. It would also be a firm vote against uncontrolled dogs and animal rightists being allowed on the Moor.

Hunt saboteurs and animal rightists have a most unsavoury history. They are known for firebombing community pharmacies and desecrating the grave of the mother of perceived opponents. They also ‘liberated’ farmed mink, which have been a plague on our waterways ever since.

If BBIM are really concerned about the welfare of animals, their time would be more productively spent in countering the abuse and neglect of domestic pets. Please leave Ilkley Moor alone.

Name and address supplied