Having learnt of the terrible conditions that Polish horses, donkeys and foals are transported to Italy in, I wish to ask readers to help stop this disgusting trade. These animals cross six countries to reach their destination where they are slaughtered for horse meat.

Around 100,000 are bought in Polish markets each year, where they are put into lorries and could travel for five days. Invariably overcrowded they frequently fall and struggle desperately to regain their feet. Many are wounded and trampled on.

At staging points, fallen horses are either dragged off the lorry with chains or subjected to violent treatment to induce them to stand.

These horses have served man well and do not deserve such an end. Viva, an organisation based in Brighton have made a video of the trade n live horses. Their full address is: 12 Queen Square, Brighton, BN1 3FD. Tel: 01273 777688. Website www.viva.org.uk where you can see the video.

J Etherington

Mackenzie Road

Beckenham

December 5, 2001 14:18