Christmas market forced to cancel reindeer booking due to fears over animal rights protests

Organisers had advertised that “actual reindeer” could feature at the November 29 event.

Members of the organising committee acknowledged the “strength of feeling” surrounding the matter.

The North East Animal Rights Group took to social media to welcome the decision, while some condemned it.

In a statement, members of the committee responded to some of the concerns raised about the presence of its booked reindeers.

They also clarified that the decision was not a reflection of their views on the company which would have provided the reindeer.

Said company was praised by the group as “professional, knowledgable and clearly dedicated to the welfare of their animals”.

Social media users delivered a mixed response, with one saying it was “sad when a few paranoid people ruin things for everyone”.

A parent shared their disappointment, saying: “That’s a shame, as my son was looking forward to seeing them”.

Another social media user praised it as a “good decision”.

North East Animal Rights told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “We welcome the decision to remove the reindeer and wish the organisers a successful animal-free event”.

Reindeer are a common attraction at Christmas markets around the UK.

Their presence is controversial due to it often being kept in a pen while members of the public approach it.

Websites offer reindeer for hire at events from around £400 for between two and eight-hour stints.

Their handlers often bring them to shopping centres, weddings and corporate events as well as Christmas markets.