A UK based animal welfare group, the RSPCA have spoken out after a group of three elephants appeared at a circus in Nottinghamshire.
This is the first time in ten years that animals have been used as part of the entertainment at a circus in the UK. Circuses stopped using animals in their performances after concerns about welfare. The director of the circus, Martin Lacey has assured people that the elephants would be well looked after.
People visiting the show tonight seemed largely unconcerned about the animals appearing as part of the show but a small group of protesters did show up.
This type of show has long been considered cruel by some and many people are saddened to see the return of an animal circus to the UK. The Great British Circus who have organized the event have given their reassurances the animals will be well looked after but this isn't enough to quell the concerns of campaigners
Dr Bob Atkinson from the RSPCA had this to say
"This is a body blow for animal welfare in this country.
"I am sure this news will shock and sadden the public which has consistently shown its opposition to the use of wild animals in circuses."
"Asking these majestic animals to behave in unnatural ways in the name of entertainment is a disgrace - a disgrace which is already banned in several other European countries"
Chris Baltrop from the Great British Circus had this to say.
"They have lots of activity, they have lots to think about, they're in constant contact with one another, with people they have the best of
care."
