Circus animal petition nears 20,000 target

Almost 20,000 have signed The Independent’s online petition calling for a ban on wild animals in circuses.

A campaign by animal lovers on Twitter directed thousands of animal lovers to the petition - which hit 19,500 signatures last night.

As disclosed in The Independent a fortnight ago, Downing Street has blocked plans by environment ministers to introduce a ban on animals such as lions, tigers and elephants in the big top.

Our campaign has the support of the RSPCA, British Veterinary Association, Born Free Foundation and the Captive Animals' Protection Society.

Representatives of the five organisations will present the petition to Downing Street later today.

The target is to reach 20,000 signatures by then.

Last chance to sign the petition, click here Independent.co.uk/circusanimals.