AN animal protection group has praised Redditch Council's refusal to allow a reptile show to be staged in the town.

Animal Aid is 'delighted' councillors voted against allowing the International Herpetological Society to use Arrow Valley Social Club for the event.

The controversial application, which followed a successful reptile show in Redditch in September, received final refusal last week despite councillors' attempts to overturn the executive committee's decision.

The council also received 21 letters and e-mails objecting to the application.

Conservative Councillor Pat Wilson proposed to reverse the executive's decision but was outvoted by 13 votes to 12.