Postal workers cry wolf

Royal Mail "posties" have always had to play nip and tuck with the domestic mutt. Then canine fashion gave them the Rottweiler to contend with, followed by the American-bred pit bull terrier.

But the importation of hybrid wolves has prompted complaints to the Government. Billy Hayes, assistant secretary of the Communication Workers' Union, which represents post workers, said: "Introducing hybrid wolves into our dog population takes people's irresponsibility to new levels of stupidity."

The RSPCA last month called on ministers to issue clear guidelines to local authorities on the identification of the wolves.