At no point have rabbits been 'left to starve', says cricket club

Follows allegations after photos circulated social media

Cronkbourne Cricket Club has hit out at social media allegations and 'opportunistic' photos which appeared to show a dead wild rabbit in a trap on its grounds.

In a statement to Manx Radio, the club has revealed a licensed pest control officer has been employed due to concerns over holes dug by rabbits which pose risk to human health.

"Work has been undertaken within the letter of the law"

Cronkbourne says it's disappointed 'baseless' accusations have appeared to circulate online in recent days but stress at no point have rabbits been 'left to starve'.

In closing, the club has threatened legal action against any 'media or news organisation that repeats them [the accusations]'.

The statement in full:

Cronkbourne Cricket Club has a duty to protect the many adults and children who use our facilities each week.

Their safety and welfare is our number one priority and, with the real risk someone would be injured due to a significant number of rabbit holes on the field, the club decided to employ a licenced pest control officer.

The work has been undertaken within the letter of the law and in accordance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

At no point have rabbits been ‘left to starve’ on the grounds and the club has been disappointed to note a number of baseless allegations and comments which have appeared on social media in recent days.

As is often the case, the inaccurate content and misinformation stems from an incorrect starting point and what appears to be some opportunistic photos.

It is important to reiterate, the allegations on social media are completely untrue and the club will consider taking legal action against any media / news organisation that repeats them.