The RHS Petition - Protect the Wild

Drop The Newt in Somerset from the Chelsea Flower Show

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Dear RHS,

I am writing to express my deep disappointment and concern regarding the Chelsea Flower Show's ongoing association with The Newt in Somerset as its headline sponsor since 2022. While The Newt in Somerset is renowned for its luxurious offerings and picturesque gardens, its involvement with the Blackmore and Sparkford Vale Hunt (BSV) is in direct conflict with the values of the Chelsea Flower Show and its mission of promoting "gardening for good."

The Newt allows the BSV to meet on its property, a group that is arguably the worst fox hunt in the entire country. The BSV has a notorious reputation, both locally and nationally, for engaging in illegal activities and violating the 2004 Hunting Act, which bans the pursuit and killing of wild mammals with dogs. This hunt has been involved in several egregious incidents, including:
Exposure by Channel 4 News for a brutal fox killing, leading to suspension by the British Hound Sports Association.
Convictions of BSV members for violent crimes, such as Charlie Mayo for Actual Bodily Harm and Steve Paul, who pleaded guilty to assault during a hunt.

These actions are not only illegal but also morally repugnant. A study by Protect the Wild of the 2022/23 hunting season revealed that nearly a third of the BSV's observed meets resulted in the pursuit and killing of a fox. 
By continuing to accept sponsorship from The Newt in Somerset, the Chelsea Flower Show is inadvertently aligning itself with cruelty and illegal hunting practices. This not only undermines the show's commitment to promoting a positive and ethical relationship with nature but also tarnishes its esteemed reputation.

I urge the RHS to reconsider and sever its sponsorship ties and association with The Newt in Somerset. This decisive action will demonstrate the Chelsea Flower Show's commitment to ethical and humane practices, ensuring that it remains a beacon of positive environmental stewardship.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I look forward to your response and hope that the RHS will take a stand against animal cruelty by disassociating itself from The Newt in Somerset.
Sincerely,

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Drop The Newt in Somerset from the Chelsea Flower Show

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