I am writing in regard to the latest two articles by Clive Heath (Aug 26) re anti-hunting and Mrs Sheppard's article.

When I wrote my article published on August 13, I believed I was giving an opinion on the other side of a debate – not becoming the target of mud-slinging.

He seems to believe that, because my opinion differs to his, this gives him the right to publicly slander my name, comparing me to people who knowingly trap two animals in a pit with no escape and bet on the outcome, and referring to myself and these with an opinion contrary to his as bigoted, loathsome, cruel to animals (all animals!) etc.

In my article, I did not refer to him as a stupid individual. He, however, in his writings, constantly misquotes and twists my words to suit his argument, ie due to an unfortunate misprint, omitting the words "cock fighting", I obviously mean "hunting with dogs".

I do not presume to tell others what they are allowed to think. We live in a democracy and have the right to our own opinion, and Mrs Sheppard is entitled to her opinion. Personally, I believe that, whichever party is in power, there are far more important things to be dealt with first, like the recession, unemployment, the NHS, youth violence etc. I would like to point out that mink are not native to this country. Having been released from mink farms years ago, they have become one of the biggest threats to our native bird population. Bear-baiting died out with Henry VIII, as did serfs.

Clive Heath seems to dislike the aristocracy just because they are the aristocracy and assumes anyone who has anything to do with hunting is a friend of theirs.

We know hunting with dogs is illegal – as he likes to keep pointing out – which is why the hunts follow a laid scent trail these days.

It does not surprise me that he says he will not reply to any letters from people who do not think the way he does – and he calls us bigoted, loathsome, condescending and narrow-minded.

Mrs Styles Bristol

RE the letters on fox hunting from Gill Osman and Clive Heath. There seems to be a hint of socialist envy in these letters of the type of people who hunt.

I don't agree with stag hunting, badger baiting or dog fights. But as a town dweller I don't have the right to force my views on country folk pursuits.

It seems to me that hunt protesters who disrupt them act in the most intimidating manner designed to evoke an outburst of the wrong type from hunt members.

In this civilised society if I and others who don't agree with the 24 week abortion law went to the intimidating lengths at hospitals who carry out abortions we would rightly be condemned by everyone

I am much more interested in the start of human life than I am in foxes or game birds.

Socialists and Liberals who brought the abortion act in will not alter it. So we must look to the Conservatives to do it. I think the maximum time limit should be 12 weeks.

David Whittern Knowle