Photo: WENN.com
Queen star Brian May has spoken of his sadness after the government approved a bill to begin a badger cull in the UK countryside.
The iconic star has long campaigned in the hope of preventing the bill being passed, but politicians this week announced plans to begin culls in Gloucestershire and Somerset in an attempt to stop badgers spreading tuberculosis to cattle.
After collecting 167,000 signatures on a petition against the cull, May has now spoken of his disappointment at the government's decision.
"My initial reaction was sadness really, and a certain amount of frustration, obviously, and kind of despondency," says May of the cull. "Everybody thought that because we won the debate (in the House of Commons), that the cull was off, but it's not. It's never been so. The government has never taken its foot off the pedal.
"I think it's very, very sad... This is a tragedy for Britain's wildlife... I think it's disastrous and a tragedy."
Brian May has campaigned tireless against the UK badger cull
Despite years of work with Queen, Brian May has previously claimed he hopes to be remembered for his conservation work rather than his music.
"I suppose I've lived a crazy life, and watching wildlife brings back a sense of tranquility," said May in an interview with The Sunday Times in 2012. "When I'm gone, people will no doubt remember me for Queen, but I would much rather be remembered for attempting to change the way we treat our fellow creatures."
"[Queen] is a huge part of my life, but I do have other interests," he continued. "People know about the astrophysics, but I love gardening, too, and I've always been passionate about the welfare of our wonderful British wildlife."
Below: Brian May does his bit for badgers on the side of a busy road
