I AM deeply disappointed that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will this week represent the UK at the Calgary Stampede. This event is nothing more than a cruel spectacle of animal abuse where animals are forced to endure pain, fear and stress in order to entertain the public.

I find it appalling that despite massive public outrage the Royal couple were not advised to change their itinerary to avoid being a part of such brutality which was in fact made illegal in this country by William's great, great grandfather over 80 years ago.

Clarence House has been contacted by thousands of people who like me detest this form of cruelty, yet no action or even acknowledgement has been made of this contact. This form of cruelty has no place in modern society and the Duke and Duchess should be ashamed of themselves for endorsing such an event.

Douglas Batchelor

Chief executive

League Against Cruel Sports