VOLUNTEERS from the Dorset Badger Vaccination Project (DBVP) have vaccinated more than 100 badgers against Bovine TB across the county since May this year.

The season for vaccinating badgers runs until October 31st and the DBVP aims to increase the tally before then.

Project volunteers state that the vaccination of badgers offers ‘genuine hope’ to farmers and landowners who are worried about the effects of Bovine TB on their livelihoods and the rural economy.

DBVP lay-vaccinator Martyn Johnston was part of a team of conservationists working at a site in West Dorset when the vaccination milestone was reached.

He said: "Vaccinating more than 100 badgers already this year just proves what can be done by a few dedicated volunteers.

“It’s cheap, humane and works. Just imagine what could be achieved if local vets and the Government joined with us in committing proper effort into vaccinating badgers, as they do in Wales.”

Badgers are first trapped in cages and then injected with the vaccine. DBVP volunteers have passed specialist training courses and are only permitted to carry out their work under licence from Natural England.

DBVP lead vaccinator Melvyn Seddon, from Shaftesbury, said: “People should be aware that Bovine TB is a disease of cattle that also infects wildlife.

“If farmers are worried about the badgers on their land then they should contact us. Badger vaccination is cost effective and scientifically credible."

For more information visit the Dorset Badger Vaccination Project’s website at dbvp.org