MERSEYSIDE is leading the country in cracking down on illegal hunting, quashing claims that canny hunters can easily out-fox the ban on bloodsports.

A staggering 40% of convictions under the much-criticised Hunting Act are in Merseyside, new figures reveal.

A total of 19 people were found guilty in 2007, of whom 17 were fined. Across the rest of England and Wales, there were just 29 convictions, with Humberside (8) the next highest figure.

The Merseyside figures will be seized on as proof that it is possible to clampdown on fox-hunting if police forces have the will to do it.

Both pro and anti-hunting groups have condemned the 2005 legislation as confusing and ineffective, because it allows hounds to flush out a fox which can then be shot.

As a result, 300,000 people turned out for the traditional Boxing Day hunts last month, including around 50 red-coated riders who took part in the Cheshire Forest Hunt.

Furthermore, full-blooded hunting could yet make a comeback if the Conservatives win the next general election. David Cameron has promised a free vote on the issue.

Among the cases pursued by Merseyside Police were:

Four men who pleaded guilty after their LandRover, containing dogs, nets and other hunting equipment, was stopped by police in Islington, Liverpool.

A 19 year-old man arrested leaving the Leverhulme Estate in Lydiate, Merseyside, with two lurchers and lamping equipment. He admitted hunting rabbits on the estate.

Seven men arrested on suspicion of hunting with dogs in Rainford, St Helens.