MANY of your readers will no doubt be unaware that the government is continuing to shoot badgers in Gloucestershire as part of its efforts to stop the spread of bovine TB.

This is despite widespread recognition by experts that such culling is futile. The shooting will start again in the next few months.

Nearly 5,000 badgers have been shot in Gloucestershire as part of this cull since 2013 and the government refuses point blank to listen to public opinion.

 All readers can do is ask landowners and food suppliers if they allow culling on their land and spend their money accordingly.

Some such as the National Trust and the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust have confirmed there is no killing on their land while others such as Westonbirt Arboretum refuse to give such assurances. 

 Economic pressure can succeed where rational argument fails.

Jeanne Berry 

Slad