SIR — When walking in fields above Combe Lane, Withycombe, I came across the disturbing and horrific sight of a small deer (possibly muntjac) caught up on a barbed wire fence.

I think its ankle had broken immediately, and hanging from this, it must have spent several very painful hours trying to free itself, having dug a large muddy hole in its frantic struggle.

The long painful death is something that most of us would find abhorrent and I wonder if this type of incident could be reduced by the design of fencing?

This particular animal had caught its back foot between two strands of barbed wire about three inches apart, which is a common feature in this area.

I know that any fencing is a hazard for deer (and smaller mammals) and I am not sure what the answer is.

I do wonder if barbed wire has to be used quite as much as it is, being especially dangerous if fences are neglected.

I do believe that if there was no space between the top wire (barbed or not) and the main fence a major hazard would be eliminated.

I would be very grateful to hear on 01984 640612 from any fencing contractors who feel they can offer a solution to this frequently occuring problem.

Meg Sunningdale,

Withycombe.