Newark, Saturday 9th February 2008

Animal rights advocates assembled at the Newark Showground for a peaceful demonstration against 'The Great British Circus', which is touring once again. Those gathered were assembled to share the reality behind circus animals with circus-goers and the general public alike.

The training methods involved in producing circus 'spectacles' remain cruel and unusual; the use of concealed spikes, screws attached to walking sticks, hotshots and electric shocks have all been documented as regularly used means of training the animals. Not to mention, beyond the short intervals for performances, animals are generally kept in poor and wholly unsuitable conditions. Even large animals such as lions and tigers are typically kept in small cages both whilst on the road and prior to the show.

Commonly those involved in such circuses cite the value of conservation, and the protection offered to otherwise endangered species. The reality is that more often than not, the animals forced to perform have been taken forcefully from the wild.

The public were generally very supportive of the demonstration, with many affirming that after witnessing the show first hand they would not be visiting a circus that uses animals in the future. Likewise, police presence was minimal and even the local press were in attendance.

Indeed, a Mori poll in 2005 found a staggering 80% of the population were against wild animals performing in circuses. Similarly the government seem to hold some very real concerns, with many political and legal commentators expecting to see a ban on the use of wild animals in circuses later this year - although notably, such a ban would still leave the plight of domesticated animals unaltered.

For further information please visit  http://www.captiveanimals.org/circuses/index.htm