Overview
- The volunteer-run Richmond Christmas Fair cancelled its booking for live reindeer after strong online criticism and the prospect of organised protests.
- Organisers said the move was taken to shield volunteers from undue harassment and to avoid disruption on the event day, and they stressed the decision did not reflect any concerns about the hired company's animal care.
- The committee said the fair will go ahead on November 29 without the reindeer and that it will focus resources on other festive attractions and activities.
- Local reaction was split, with some parents and residents expressing disappointment that children will miss the animals and animal-welfare campaigners, including the North East Animal Rights Group, welcoming the withdrawal.
- Hired reindeer are a common seasonal attraction in the UK but have grown controversial because animals are often kept in pens while the public approaches them, a context organisers said contributed to the strength of feeling around the booking.