Virgin stops cruel whale visits; SeaWorld outraged.

Byline: ruki sayid Consumer Editor

VIRGIN Holidays has cut ties with all attractions using captured whales and dolphins for entertainment.

The firm will no longer offer trips to marine parks, such as SeaWorld in Florid.

Boss Sir Richard Branson said: "We felt strongly this was the right thing to do."

But SeaWorld accused the firm of caving in to "animal activists who mislead and manipulate marine mammal science to decision Firm cut ties advance their agendas". Dr Chris Dold, of SeaWorld Parks, said it was a "recognised global leader in marine mammal science".

Jan-Schmidt Burbach, of World Animal Protection, welcomed Virgin's decision. He said: "We hope this very clear message signals a shift in the holiday industry."

Dylan Walker, of World Cetacean Alliance, said: "We are extremely pleased."

ruki.sayid@mirror.co.uk @RukiSayid

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