Give Anne her freedom! (From Penarth Times)

Give Anne her freedom!

PENARTH AM Lorraine Barrett has backed a campaign calling for Britain's last remaining circus elephant to be allowed to enjoy her retirement.

Anne the elephant is now 52, and has spent a lifetime performing tricks in the circus ring - but her owner is refusing to let her retire.

Lorraine Barrett, who chairs an all-party Assembly group which campaigns to improve the welfare of animals, said: "An undercover investigation in a national newspaper revealed that Anne is in almost constant pain and showing signs of organ failure, as well as mental problems from her years in captivity.

"She should be allowed to retire and spend her last few years free from exploitation."