POLICE and the RSPCA are calling for help in bringing cock fighters to justice.

They say the public aren't aware that the abhorrent Medieval pass time still takes place.

Cheshire's Wildlife and Environment officer, PC Mike Wellman, said: "We've got evidence that cock-fighting happens in Cheshire, including Vale Royal, which is what is so disgusting. But there are very few prosecutions. It's very sad."

PC Wellman described how metal spurs are attached to the natural spurs which stick out from the back of birds' feet.

"Having spurs is an offence in itself. They are as sharp as scalpels - the fight begins until one is killed. It's brutal and barbaric," he said.

"I don't think any bird could survive for long."

Police will not be specific about the locations of fighting in Vale Royal in fear of jeopardising their investigations. They have to rely on tip-offs, but being underground, cock-fighting is very difficult to police.

"These criminals haven't changed with the times. Their betting on this cruel, so-called sport is a real clandestine operation," added PC Wellman.

"We may get a report of a cockfight, but when we arrive all we find is feathers and blood."

Cock-fighting was popular in Eastern countries in ancient times and slowly spread to the West. It was finally banned in Britain in the mid 1800s for being too barbaric.

If you can help catch these people ring PC Mike Wellman in confidence on 01244 612218 or the RSPCA on 0990 555999.

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