Group in protest as circus stops in town

An organisation devoted to the protection of animals is campaigning against a new circus show that has rolled up in Cannock this week – just weeks after it was greeted by protesters when it opened in nearby Lichfield.

Peter Jolly's Travelling Circus is being held in a field off Ogley Hay, Chasetown, and runs until Sunday. Members of The Born Free Foundation have labelled the circus "archaic and unacceptable", and are fighting to bring an end to the use of wild animals in travelling circuses.

Last month, Peter Jolly's circus was in Walsall Road, Lichfield, for a five-day run, when it attracted opposition from the Captive Animals Protection Society (Caps), which brands the show "cruel and Victorian".

On Peter Jolly's official website, the circus is described as a "traditional family show that has gone from strength to strength over the past 38 years". It is run by husband and wife team Peter and Carol.

The circus exhibits more than 20 different animals including llamas, camels, horses, geese, zebras, dogs, cats and an ankole bull.

Chris Draper, of The Born Free Foundation said: "Travelling circuses cannot even offer their animals the environmental minimums guaranteed to the same species in even the most simple licensed zoo."

The foundation's CEO Will Travers added: "We are continuing to call on Government to institute a legal prohibition on the use of all wild animals in circuses."

Burntwood Town Councillor Paul Atkins said: "When I drove past it my main concern was the entrance they have near the bypass. If people are coming and going out across the bypass, that is dangerous.

"As far as the circus is concerned, as long as the RSPCA make regular visits, I don't see the problem."

Peter Jolly's Circus declined to comment.