RSPCA appeals will ruling

The RSPCA has challenged a ruling which overturned a will leaving a £2 million estate to the animal welfare organisation.

University lecturer Christine Gill won a High Court battle last year to overturn the will, which left her parents' 287-acre farm to the charity.

In a ruling given in Leeds, a judge found that Dr Gill's "domineering" father had coerced her mother into making the will.

In a statement the RSPCA said: "The Gills had already provided substantially for their daughter, which included a large contribution towards the purchase of the farmhouse in which she lives.

"The RSPCA carefully considered the merits of its action before taking the decision to appeal in order to honour Mrs Gill's wishes.

"Whilst the charity appreciates Dr Gill's disappointment, the law in this country is clear; individuals have the testamentary freedom to leave their estate to whoever they wish."