Sir, - As an animal lover I would like to protest against the abuse and overuse of the high horse on the moral high ground.
I had the privilege of working with Il Florilegio Circus during its last tour of Ireland. I produced an entire series of paintings from the weeks I spent with them, thanks to their inspiring presence and gracious hospitality. I spent much of the time behind the scenes and can assure all worried parties that the animals were extremely well looked after. They were attended to constantly and appeared not only perfectly content but even cheerful.
I know that the Togni family and their troupe enjoyed their last visit to Ireland and I hope we can make them welcome again. Their circus is one of the most beautiful pieces of theatre we have seen in this country. We should celebrate it and not become a nation of censorship all over again. - Yours, etc.,
Jay Murphy, Roscahill, Oughterard, Co Galway.