HOLYROOD was set today to vote on ending greyhound racing a day after Wales passed the ban.

Green MSP Mark Ruskell brought forward legislation that would ban the sport in Scotland.

Today’s vote on the issue came after the Senedd in Wales voted on Tuesday to ban the sport in a move hailed by campaigners as a “landmark moment for dog welfare.”

As MSPs prepared to vote on the Bill, Westminster’s newest MP Hannah Spencer urged them to “end greyhound racing for good,” adding that England should now “follow the lead” on the issue.

Ms Spencer, who was elected as Gorton and Denton MP in a by-election last month, praised fellow Green parliamentarian Mr Ruskell for “the determination and compassion” on the issue.

She said: “He has been tireless in standing up for greyhounds and working alongside campaigners to spotlight the cruelty and suffering this outdated industry inflicts on animals.

“Campaigners have fought hard for years to end the suffering greyhounds face, and I hope Scotland will lead the way by passing this Bill.

“I’m proud that the Scottish Greens are leading the way on this issue and I hope to see England follow Scotland’s lead, because these wonderful dogs deserve protection, care and loving homes wherever they live.”

Ms Spencer, who has four former racing greyhounds as pets, continued: “I will continue to champion this cause until greyhound racing is brought to an end in England.”

Mr Ruskell said greyhound racing “is a cruel sport that has a terrible impact on the dogs who are risking their lives by being forced to run at such dangerous speeds.”