North West Leicestershire District Council says that reindeer will no longer be used as 'entertainment' at events leading up to Christmas this year.

The animals were not present at the Christmas in Coalville event last weekend - and it is expected the Ashby Christmas Market will also not feature reindeer.

It is understood the Packington-based Phoenix Children's Charity, which normally brings reindeer to the Ashby Fair, have been told they cannot do that this year.

Cllr Tony Gillard, the Portfolio Holder for Business at North West Leicestershire District Council, has addressed the issue and said: "While previously reindeer have been to Christmas in Coalville, we decided that they should no longer be invited to act as entertainment.

"In previous years we have received feedback from people unhappy with the use of real reindeer at the event, and following a debate by councillors from the Coalville Special Expenses Working Party which oversees organisation of the town's festivities, have decided that they are no longer an appropriate addition to the Christmas programme of events.

 "We do not have a policy on the use of animals at events, and work with organisers on a case-by-case basis to determine if their attendance would be appropriate."

Animal campaigners Animal Aid have also voiced their concerns about the use of reindeers in Christmas events. 

The Animal Aid website says: "In recent years this enjoyable folk story has led to the exploitation of these beautiful animals. 

"Reindeer are frequently displayed in pens, in garden centres or shopping precincts, or led along busy streets as part of a Christmas parade, for the 'entertainment' of the crowds.

"Reindeer are sensitive semi-wild animals who are adapted to live in a cold climate, foraging for lichen, herbs and other plants. They have a natural desire to roam and, as herding animals, some species migrate up to 3,000 miles a year. This is a hugely different existence to that of the reindeer kept in captivity who cannot roam freely and are often fed an inappropriate diet. Reindeer are social creatures, who naturally live in large herds for protection. They can feel nervous being kept in small groups, such as when they are transported to events.

"At festive events, these shy animals can be on display for hours, or exposed to bright lights and noisy crowds, with nowhere to hide. They are often transported long distances and can be "on tour" for weeks at a time over the festive season. These conditions can be hugely stressful and can have severe impacts on the health and welfare of these gentle creatures."

Councils in several parts of the country now fear lobbying by activists could increase.

The Ashby Christmas Market will now have a land train in Brook Street which will offer free rides both days.

Ashby's Business Improvement District said: "It was felt that while they fully support the work the Phoenix Children's charity does it would not be appropriate to have reindeer at the event due to the increased noise of the bigger stage and activities of the Christmas event. However, we will look to support the charity at more suitable events in the future."