Surely it is for the people of Trowbridge to decide how to deal with the pigeon problem in the town and not animal activists from across the south west.

Armed with placards, drums, horns and petitions, protesters descended on the town at the weekend in a bid to stop a pigeon cull.

Shoppers in Fore Street witnessed the first wave of demonstrations on Saturday, aimed at enlisting support for the forthcoming clash.

Town councillors have been searching for ways to control the exploding pigeon population and could sanction a cull at a meeting in the new year.

Killing any animal is always an emotive subject, but local decision-makers have a duty to choose the best option.

Alternatives have been explored but maybe there is no other option than to start shooting the birds.

One expert has said shock-tactic campaigners who regularly target animal testing laboratories could be drawn to Trowbridge if a cull is agreed.

Let's hope any future protests remain peaceful, and no verbal or written threats are made.

It is hard to understand why activists sometimes resort to violent or threatening tactics. Being passionate about something is not a bad thing, but people should be able to get their point across without causing too much disruption.

The pigeon problem in Trowbridge has been an issue for some time, and we are all growing tired of discussions about ways to resolve it.

The last thing the town needs is more debate. Let's have a decision soon, which doesn't ruffle too many feathers.