HUNTING foxes with dogs may be banned but Huddersfield writer Michael Lee of Oakes has come up with an alternative.

He wrote to the North Cotswold Hunt offering his services as a human fox.

"Although bald as a coot on the top of my head, I am most remarkable in the thickness and extent of ginger-brown body hair on my chest, back, arms and shoulders and, from a distance with shirt removed, have a slight resemblance to the Red Fox."

He adds, "Most importantly, I am a long-standing member of the Fell Runners Association and not only skilled as far as map and compass work is concerned, I can also run like the very wind when being chased.

"In short, if the foxhounds are trained to stand back once they have caught me (if they catch me) and leave me unravaged, I am pefectly happy to play the part of the fox at any of your future hunts. Dressed either in a lightweight fox outfit or my own running attire."

Michael said he would be a challenge for any pack of hounds and hunstmen and offered an interesting end to the day's event.

"Joining the Hunt concerned for a pie and a pint at the nearest hostelry and provide the team with a fox's perspective of the occasion."

Which would be a first.

The Hunt actually replied with thanks while reluctantly declining his offer.

"We were particularly struck by your willingness to wear a lightweight fox costume. We felt that, although it would add a splendid touch of authenticity, it might well unnerve the large number of sheep that roam the Cotswold hills."

Michael has applied for other unusual jobs such as Official Government Scapegoat, Lady Godiva's Horse and Old Father Time. When he applied to be The Beast Of Bodmin Moor he received a contract of employment.

More of his madcap job applications can be found in his books Written In Jest and Wanted: One Freudian Slip, both Robson Books.