I COMPLETELY agree with Mr Robertshaw about the Grand National being cruel (Evening Press, April 4).

He is correct to say that most ex-racehorses end up in tins of pet food. Occasionally, a horse will be lucky enough to go to a kind owner or an animal sanctuary when he/she retires, but most aren't this lucky.

As for the hurdles they have to jump in this race, the statistics speak for themselves. Thirty six of the 40 runners last year fell, with one dying.

Although too late for this year, I urge people to boycott this cruel and barbaric race next year.

Sarah Shaw,

Gordon Street, York.

Updated: 10:33 Tuesday, April 09, 2002