Despite the fact that fox hunting was banned over 20 years ago, illegal hunting continues to be a grim reality, posing a horrifying threat to countless foxes and cubs who are cruelly torn apart alive every year. The insidious issue dwells under the deceptive guise of 'trail hunting', a serious concern that resonates personally with us and many like us.

The premise of trail hunting allegedly involves setting a trail with a rag soaked in fox scent. However, interestingly, all trail hunts still employ terriermen, whose primary role seems to be perpetuating violence against hunt monitors and atrociously digging out foxes that have sought refuge underground in a bid to escape hunting hounds. This poses the question - If the hunt is solely chasing a scented rag, why is there a need for terriermen at all?

The disturbing presence and role of terriermen seemingly indicates that the stated purpose of trail hunting is merely a smokescreen disguising the continued illegal hunting of foxes. This still occurs, despite the original Hunting Act's efforts to stop this cruel activity.

The new Labour government must honour their commitment and act responsibly to close the loopholes in the present Hunting Act. The first step towards this change is banning the brutal and unnecessary involvement of terriermen. It is a change that not only ensures protection towards foxes but it also aligns with the ethical standards our society should uphold.

Please support this much-needed step towards stronger legislation and animal welfare by signing this petition. For the foxes that cannot speak for themselves and for a more compassionate society, your support can make a world of difference.