SUSPECTED badger baiters were reported to Gwent Police after an Argus story highlighted the plight of a female with horrific injuries.

Steve Clark, chairman of Gwent Badger Group, said the story in Saturday's Argus had resulted in the names and addresses of four suspects being passed to police.

"We're very pleased with this outcome," he said. "More than 40 snares had been found in the Penhow Castle area, between Newport and Chepstow. Several badgers had been trapped and one of them died.

"We have also had an offer of a donation as a result of the Argus story."

A spokesman for Gwent Police confirmed they had been contacted by the Gwent Badger Group regarding allegations of badger baiting near Penhow Castle, and inquiries are ongoing.

We reported how a three-year-old sow needed £1,000 worth of treatment and nine weeks of care, complete with a 'tummy tuck' for horrific abdominal injuries before being set free again.

On anaesthetising the badger it was discovered she had a band of putrid necrotic skin three-quarters of an inch wide between her hips. An operation resulted in the removal of the dead skin, with the sow being stapled back together.

Steve said that they were the most horrific injuries he had seen since becoming chairman of the group ten years ago. He was now hopeful of the culprits being brought to book.

"The penalties for this type of offence can be six months in prison and fines of up to £5,000," added Steve.

The Gwent Badger Group relies entirely on charitable donations for its work. For more information or to make a donation contact Steve on 07867 673054 or steve@gwentbadgergroup.org.uk, Mike on 07830 108467, mike@gwentbadgergroup.org.uk or visit the website www.gwentbadgergroup.org.uk