Recently unveiled plans have confirmed that organisers plan to use dozens of live animals in the Opening Ceremony for the London 2012 Olympic Games. Subjecting animals to a crowd of 62,000 people, the noise, lights and atmosphere within the Olympic stadium is irresponsible and has the potential to seriously compromise the animals' welfare. We demand that the plans for the use of live animals are withdrawn immediately. The UK prides itself on being a nation of animal lovers - exploiting animals on this global stage is unacceptable.

(Photo: John Haslam)

Dear Committee Members,

We, the undersigned, oppose the plans to use dozens of live animals in the Opening Ceremony for the London 2012 Olympic Games. Subjecting animals to a crowd of 62,000 people, the noise, lights and atmosphere within the Olympic Stadium is irresponsible and has the potential to seriously compromise the animals' welfare.

We demand that the plans for the use of live animals are withdrawn immediately and that an alternative is found for the event.

The UK prides itself on being a nation of animal lovers - exploiting animals on this global stage is wholly unacceptable and will not be supported.

Best regards,