IN reply to Richard Mountford's letter in Citizen last week, Prof Blakemore's chance of a New Year's Honour should not have been affected by the nature of his work because the Government actively and rightly supports animal research.

It is legal, ethical and necessary, and has been responsible for many scientific breakthroughs and subsequent treatments.

Many researchers carry out their vital work in fear of the violent minority who place animal welfare above humans and themselves above the law.

And then there are the bleeding hearts who portray scientists as lab-coated bunny blinders and emphasise the use of cute fluffy pet animals.

This is far from the truth and I wonder how many of these people actually apply their abhorrence of vivisection to their own lives by refusing medical treatment?

Personally I am proud to work in a laboratory to assist diagnosis and relieve suffering.

Claire Scott, Lancaster.