Animal rights link will be investigated (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Animal rights link will be investigated

7:08pm Friday 30th January 2009

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Police are continuing investigations into a vandalism attack on cars belonging to a senior Bradford councillor.

Anne Hawkesworth, Bradford Council’s executive member for the environment, said there was a “possibility” anti-hunting protesters poured acid over two cars and slashed their tyres.

Coun Hawkesworth said she believed she had been a target of animal rights extremists because of her support for grouse shooting on Ilkley Moor.

No group has claimed responsibility for the vandalism but a West Yorkshire Police spokesman said the force will investigate any links with animal rights activists. A post has appeared on a campaign magazine website, purporting to be from the Animal Liberation Front (ALF).

The anonymous posting on the website of US-based Bite Back magazine makes reference to the attack on Coun Hawkesworth’s cars and goes on to state the group’s opposition to grouse shooting on Ilkley Moor.

A police spokesman said: “We are continuing to investigate the damage caused to the cars. If any evidence comes to light to suggest it is linked with animal rights activitists it will be investigated.”

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