PROTESTERS are planning to lobby visitors to a circus amid concerns over animal welfare, writes LEDA REYNOLDS.

Helen Turner, of Worcestershire Animal Rights Coalition, is organising the protest tonight against the Peter Jolly Circus after spotting camels and llamas tethered to a fence along the A449 yesterday.

The circus, which began a week-long run yesterday, has set up at the Monksfield Farm car boot site off the A449 between Malvern and Powick.

"I couldn't believe it when I saw the camels, llamas and ponies tethered in a field so close to a very busy road," said Mrs Turner, of Malvern.

"It horrifies me. The use of animals in entertainment seems so archaic - so old fashioned - yet there are people who seemingly enjoy these events.

"I understand that parents want their children to see animals, but why can't they take them to an animal sanctuary? "Animals in circuses often have to travel long distances in confined spaces which I think is just not on in 2003."

She says although there is nothing to suggest the animals are being mistreated, the laws protecting them are a "grey area".

"I think the exploitation of animals is wrong and I'm urging people to think twice before attending a circus involving animals."

The protest will begin at 6.30pm at the Monksfield Farm site.

Margaret Thompson, of Peter Jolly Circus, said all the circus animals were well looked after.

"The animals here are refuge animals and would be dead if it wasn't for the circus.

"We treat our animals well - they are kept better than the workers.

"Anyone is welcome to come and visit them at any time."