AN animal welfare group were disappointed with North Ayrshire Council's decision to grant the Bobby Roberts Super Circus a licence to perform at Stevenston Beach Park this week.

The circus, which has been travelling for nine weeks, takes around a 56-year-old elephant who suffers from arthritis.

Although the elephant, Anne, does not perform tricks any more, animal welfare groups feel that at her age and with her medical condition trailing her around with the circus is cruel.

However, despite objections the entertainment licence was given the green light by councillors on Friday.

Speaking after the meeting Libby Anderson from Advocates for Animals said: "I am extremely disappointed." FOR THE FULL STORY SEE THIS WEEK'S HERALD.