IT was of interest to note the Duke of Cambridge's impassioned plea to end the practise of illegal poaching ("Prince attacks illegal poaching", The Herald, November 17).

Prince Williams's concern on this illegal slaughter of "tens of thousands of animals" was the possibility of ultimate extinction. Perhaps his laudable efforts should first be heeded by the British landed gentry and their subordinate supporters of blood sports.

Evidenced by the recent growth of food banks it is hardly surprising that illegal poaching has increased due to a needs-must situation. Whilst illegal and not to be condoned, it is surely preferable to those who perpetuate the wanton killing of birds and animals in the name of sport.

Allan C Steele,

22 Forres Avenue, Giffnock.