HAVING read the letter (August 9) from K C Murphy regarding the killing of the polar bear, I agree wholeheartedly with his opinions.

I too am very sad for the family of the young man who was mauled to death, but in my view this expedition should never have been there in the first place. According to a report in your newspaper of the same date, the polar bear was underweight and hungry, and in its own territory, presumably looking for food.

It would not stop to consider whether its food would consist of some sea creature (fair game) or a human being (not allowed).

Perhaps we can learn from this dreadful happening, and leave wild animals in peace, and possibly observe their behaviour from helicopters, so both human and animals are safe from each other.

J CAVE

Plymouth