WITH the horrors of the Grand National fast approaching, may we, Southampton United Animal Charities, appeal to everyone not to show support for it by betting on the poor horses forced to take part, nor joining in sweepstakes.

The death of two horses last year, and at other such races throughout the autumn and winter, are cruelties we can do without.

If horses naturally jump fences and hedges, how is it that they can be kept in fields with low barriers and gates?

S. CLAYTON, Southampton.