A Conservative MP has hit back at attacks on his animal welfare credentials, describing them as “disappointing”.

Sir Simon Clarke recently backed a motion at Redcar and Cleveland Council brought by Conservative councillor Justin Thompson which aimed to put a stop to the giving out of live goldfish in plastic bags as prizes at fairs and events on local authority land.

The motion received unanimous support when it was put before a full meeting of the council last month.

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Critics of the Tory MP on social media then pointed out his support for local fox hunts, in particular a meeting at Great Ayton he said he used to attend as a child.

A Liberal Democrat spokeswoman said: “Mr Clarke has a very suspect animal rights history for somebody who cares about goldfish welfare.

“He has recently expressed fond memories of fox hunt gatherings, however he may disguise such sympathies.

“In June he also voted against a Parliamentary bill that would crack down on the illegal smuggling of puppies and the caging of primates.

“Unfortunately, Sir Simon is increasingly using Redcar and Cleveland Council as a tool to save his political career after six years largely voting against the interests of local people.”

Mr Clarke, who represents the Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland constituency, said he had “never ridden a horse in my life, still less hunted anything”.

He said: “I am strongly supportive of Justin’s motion and I think it’s a good example of how local councils can help make a difference.

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“It is disappointing that some people try to suggest it’s not possible to welcome this move, while also saying that as a child I enjoyed going with my grandparents to watch the hunt meet at Great Ayton before lunch on Christmas Day.

“I have never ridden a horse in my life, still less hunted anything, but this remains an important part of rural life and a colourful part of our country’s history and tradition.”

The MP also said it showed “true brass neck” for the Lib Dems to be “lecturing me about whether I vote in the interests of the people”.

He added: “It was they who went into the last election pledging to overturn the Brexit that two thirds of my constituents voted for.

“They lost their deposit with just 4% of the vote for their troubles.”