AS Christmas approaches, reindeer are being transported up and down the country to be used as entertainment in parades, "Santa's grottos" and other festive events.

Uprooting them from their natural habitat to keep them in captivity causes significant health and welfare problems.

Research at the Veterinary Laboratories Agency suggests it is linked to a recent increase in deaths in young reindeer, including seven who died from liver and gut flukes in Shropshire and another from a lung disease on a farm near Winchester.

Quite simply, reindeer are not suited to living in the UK.

Animal Aid urges people to choose cruelty-free entertainment this Christmas. For a free guide, call 01732 364546 or e-mail info@animalaid.org.uk.

Ashley Owen Animal Aid Kent