Shocking abuse of reindeers has prompted a number of events to cancel having live reindeers at Christmas events.

Thurrock Garden Centre is among those which will no longer have reindeers after the footage, from charity Animal Aid, emerged.

Animal Aid filmed at three different reindeer centres from November 2017 and throughout 2018.

The worst findings were at Kent Reindeer Centre.

The campaign group was shocked to see a worker kick a reindeer on two different occasions as well as shouting abuse at these gentle creatures, revealed by footage taken on hidden cameras.

No-one from Kent Reindeer Centre was available for comment when contacted by the Echo.

However, a spokeswoman told the BBC all its animals are "much loved and well cared for", and added: "The person involved was one of several new part-time staff that we took on to help out.

"He was dismissed as unsuitable after a short period of time.

"These matters were discussed in full with the RSPCA and our vet back in the summer.

"We understand people's concerns and distress and I can only confirm we as a family care passionately about our animals."

 

There were also reindeers with raw, exposed skin, diarrhoea and skeletal abnormalities and poorly-looking reindeers on display.

Eight live reindeer events have now been cancelled following the release of the footage, including at Thurrock Garden Centre.

Live reindeers are being advertised at both Basildon and Canvey Christmas events. Both councils have been contacted for comment.

Animal Aid's campaign manager, Tor Bailey said: "Our investigations have revealed the shocking suffering of these gentle animals. Reindeer are sensitive wild animals, not props to be paraded around and used for human entertainment.

"I would urge the general public not to support events which feature live captive animals and find other more animal-friendly ways to enjoy the festive period."

A Facebook post from Thurrock Garden Centre reads: "This year, we have taken the decision to support Animal Aid by not having real reindeer in our Grotto this year due to the recent publicity surrounding the welfare of these animals."

Santa's Grotto Experience at Thurrock Garden Centre opens on Saturday and you can see farm animals - excluding reindeer - and visit Santa in his grotto.