Sponsored by
Protesters at Dial Post circus site
ANIMAL rights campaigners turned out in force to protest against a circus in Dial Post which uses tigers and elephants.
But a spokesman for the circus has condemned the 'bullying' tactics of the protesters and said the animals were treated 'impeccably'.
The Great British Circus arrived at the West Sussex Showground yesterday (Tuesday June 9) for its first performance.
Its website boasts: "The only circus in Britain with elephants, tigers, camels, horses."
But around 40 protestors made their feelings clear with banners, placards and chants outside.
Sue Baumgardt, who is a member of Brighton Animal Action, said there were also campaigners from Worthing, Shoreham and Crawley.
"I'm appalled that the Government have back tracked banning wild animals in circuses and allow this circus to continue."
She raised concerns about the big cats in the circus adding: "You can't graze big cats in a field. They are wild predators that are caged up all the time."
The circus will be in Dial Post until Sunday June 21 and has been criticised by the Horsham-based Born Free Foundation.
Chris Barltrop, a spokesman for the circus, said: "The way we conduct ourselves, the way we look after our animals is impeccable.
"I think the tragic thing about the bullying way these people seek to impose their opinions on others is the most alarming aspect of it."
Last week Mr Barltrop said a report from the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs concluded there was no scientific reason to ban any species of animal from being with a travelling circus.
For comprehensive coverage of all the stories making the local news, read Friday's edition of the West Sussex County Times newspaper. Visitors to www.wscountytimes.co.uk who wish to purchase a copy of the County Times newspaper but live outside our circulation area can do so by telephoning 01403 751200 and asking for reception. The cost of the newspaper plus postage in England is 1.55 which can be paid for by credit card. Overseas rates are also available, on request.
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Horsham
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Thunderstorm
Temperature: 14 C to 26 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: East
