Ferrets mooted for rabbit control

Use of ferrets deemed "most humane" way of dealing with rabbit infestation at Stockcross playing field

SPEEN Parish Council and AFC Newbury Boys and Girls are considering clearing the rabbit infestation at Stockcross recreation ground by using ferrets as exterminators.

The rabbits have caused so much damage that the ground has become unusable for the footballers that play on it and the AFC Newbury said that the only option available was to get rid of the rabbits.

AFC chairman, Paul Rogers, said: “There are two options, really, we can either take care of the problem using professional exterminators using ferrets, or we can shoot them, and shooting needs a lot of co-ordination.

“If it turns out that ferrets are the most humane way to deal with them, then that is what we'll do.”

The club had been using the Stockcross recreation ground, which is owned by Speen Parish Council, for Sunday League and practice matches up until two years ago.

When they finally lost their battle with the rabbits and declared the pitch unplayable, AFC Newbury had to instead play at various different facilities around the area.

Mr Rogers said: “At the moment, parents have to rush around to see their children play.”

He added that bringing the ground back up standard, including exterminating the rabbits and repairing the surface would cost between £10,000 and £12,000 .