THE county Wildlife Trust is asking animal lovers to fight against the proposed badger cull.

Dr Gordon McGlone, Chief Executive of Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust is urging those who care about wildlife to oppose the cull.

The Government is consulting until December 8 on a policy to control bovine TB based on licensing the culling of badgers in specific areas in England.

Gloucestershire is one of the counties where the incidence of bovine TB in cattle is particularly high. There is a separate proposal and consultation in Wales.

The Wildlife Trusts are aware TB in cattle is a serious problem for UK farms and that urgent action is required to combat the disease.

But, the trust believes that future action to address bovine TB must be based on clear scientific evidence that can be applied practically and effectively.

Dr McGlone, said: "We believe there are alternatives to culling badgers that will deliver more effective, suitable, and sustainable reductions in cattle TB. Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust is already committed to vaccinating badgers against bTB on selected nature reserves with effect from Spring 2011."

To oppose the cull, write to your local MP and ask him or her to pass on a copy of your letter to Defra.