Shock at bats being sold as 'toys or ornaments' at insect fair

THEY ARE CLASSED AS PESTS AND FOOD ITEMS IN COUNTRIES THEY ARE IMPORTED FROM

- By JOSEPH CONNOLLY Local democracy reporter

CONCERNS have been raised over the sale of dead bats at an insect fair in Nottinghamshire.

The Midland Entomological Fayre, run by Paul Holt and his wife Helen, takes place in the north of the country around twice a year and has traditionally been a showcase for bugs like beetles and moths. But two attendees of the most recent event in Ollerton in April - say they were "absolutely shocked" to find animals imported from southeast Asia on sale.

Gary Lilley, from Leicester, and Chris Searle, from Suffolk, say rare artefacts were being sold as "toys or ornaments’ at the event.

Gary said: "Is this really what wild creatures should be used for? I thought we'd got over that 100 years ago in Victorian Britain. It's as ludicrous as rhino horn or elephant tusk. I'm not a bunny hugger, I'm a realist. I'm amazed to see these things for sale in this country."

The Midland Entomological Fayre has been running in various forms, locations and under various organisers for more than 20 years.

Mr Holt took over the running of the event in 2012. It often attracts hundreds of visitors.