I'm A Celebrity producers say no animals will be harmed
Producers of I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! say no animals will be harmed during the new series of the ITV reality show.
The announcement follows a letter of complaint from the RSPCA's Director of Animal Welfare John Rolls.
He wrote to makers Granada after an offer to oversee the welfare of animals during the new series was rejected.
After the last series, 50 viewers complained that maggots, cockroaches, rats and ants forced on celebrities during the show's trials had suffered unnecessary cruelty. Fears were also raised the scenes could be copied by children.
Mr Rolls's letter, seen by The Times, read: "The bush-tucker trials could very easily injure some of the animals involved and will almost certainly cause them a great deal of distress.
"There is no excuse for using animals in such stunts if they run the risk of being harmed and it is clear from your previous series that this has been the case."
Animals had been transported long distances and taken out of their natural habitat, Mr Rolls added.
But a spokesman for Granada said: "We are working closely with the Australian RSPCA to preserve the animals' welfare. There will also be changes to this year's trials. An experienced animal wrangler will be on hand at all times."
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