Labour MP, Sandra Osborne, has pledged her support for Vote Cruelty Free, a new non-partisan coalition of animal protection organisations working to put animals on the political agenda.

The alliance has sent its manifesto to all candidates announced for the next General Election and asked them to show their support for the issues raised.

Sandra Osborne said: "I am happy to support this joined up approach to animal welfare in this coalition of reputable organisations .My constituency mailbag frequently contains letters of concern from local people on issues about cruelty to animals and this new initiative is a very positive development." A Vote Cruelty Free spokesperson said; "Animal protection is an issue close to the UK public's heart but this is often not reflected in current political debate. It is fantastic that Sandra Osborne has shown she believes in animal protection issues as much as her constituents in Ayr , Carrick and Cumnock; we are calling on all candidates to follow her lead by pledging their support for Vote Cruelty Free." Vote Cruelty Free comprises the BUAV, Compassion in World Farming, International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), League Against Cruel Sports and Respect for Animals. It covers a broad range of animal welfare issues including wild and marine animals, animal experimentation, cruel sports, the fur trade and farming.

Vote Cruelty Free is urging all candidates to pledge their support for the initiative. Voters can track candidates who have signed up by visiting the website at www.votecrueltyfree.org .