DOZENS of Stroud businesses have thrown their weight behind a new initiative for ethical companies. 

A new pledge called Business Without Blood Sports has been launched by welfare charity the League Against Cruel Sports.

So far, more businesses in Stroud have signed up to the pledge than in any other town or city in the UK.

The pledge asks businesses to commit to never promoting any activity associated with fox hunting, game bird shooting, or animal fighting.

A total of 17 companies– including Forest Green Rovers, Ecotricity, plus some small businesses including Vegan Fairs – have signed up to the pledge, which now has around 130 signatories nationally.

Chris Luffingham, the League’s deputy CEO said: “It’s great to see Stroud leading the way in creating a new community of like-minded businesses that oppose animals being persecuted, and which support our moves to end these barbaric activities for the last time.

“Animal welfare and environmental concerns are a key concern for consumers and the way in which businesses operate increasingly reflects this.

“It’s time for change, time to strengthen hunting laws in this country and businesses in Stroud are getting behind our campaign – and showing their compassion makes good business sense.”

Daisy Botha, founder of Vegan Fairs, said: “We believe that every animal, regardless of species, should be treated with kindness and that no animal deserves to be exploited, tortured and killed for our own pleasure. 

Stroud News and Journal: Stroud business owner Daisy Botha, founder of Vegan Fairs - has signed up to the pledge Stroud business owner Daisy Botha, founder of Vegan Fairs - has signed up to the pledge (Image: League Against Cruel Sports)

Paul Sands, chief growth officer, at Ecotricity, said: “Ecotricity are pleased to take the Business Without Blood Sports pledge. 

“Blood sports should have zero place in our society and Ecotricity encourages other businesses to make this pledge.”