Sir Paul Farrer (Malvern Gazette, January 11) seems confused over the issue of hunting.

He wrongly claims local hunt followers were breaking the law recently, encouraged through reports in the Gazette.

While the Hunting Act (2004) is muddled and unfit for purpose it requires reading before any comment is considered.

The law clearly allows the use of hounds to follow a scent trail.

There are also exemptions within the Act which permit flushing a fox from cover to be shot or taken by a bird of prey.

Amazingly under these regulations hunting a rat with dogs is acceptable but not mice.

The Hunting Act was based on class and a Walt Disney view of the countryside.

It needs scrapping and replacing with legislation that supports serious animal welfare, wildlife management and conservation.

JON BURGESS

Malvern