AMBER Valley MP Judy Mallaber has called on people in her constituency to sign a petition backing the ban on fox-hunting.

Her call comes after Tory leader David Cameron said his party would allow a free vote on the issue if they win the next election.

It is now five years since the fox-hunting ban was passed.

Ms Mallaber said: "The ban does not stop hunts riding with hounds over the countryside following a scent and many do. But urging dogs to chase and tear apart foxes is not a sport.

"I am therefore urging the people of Amber Valley to sign the petition to help protect the ban by going to www. backtheban.com."