I agree with Caroline Butterwick's views on animals in circuses (Mailbox, April 29).

These days we can view a great variety of animals in television documentaries. Admittedly this is not seeing them "in the flesh", but surely that is a small price to pay for the animals' freedom.

Viewed in their natural habitat, the animals exhibit their natural behaviour, not performing unnatural tricks.

Transported in cages on the backs of trucks, tied in stalls, circus animals live in impoverished, unnatural conditions. It is little wonder that many respected animal welfare organisations are opposed to their use in circuses.

The fact that the animals are fed and watered, have shelter and veterinary care are basic welfare needs which obviously should be met. However these animals are no more than prisoners used for money-making "entertainment".

In the last 100 years our understanding of animal behaviour has grown enormously. Animals in circuses are relics of a less enlightened, bygone era. It's time to move on.

Elizabeth Allison, Aylestone.