A CHARITY said it was “saddened” to see protestors outside its shop campaigning amid claims of animal testing.

Group The British Heartless Foundation organised protests outside British Heart Foundation (BHF) shops across the country.

Brighton group members stood outside the charity's shop in Western Road, from noon to 3pm on November 15, due to claims funds from the charity were donated towards animal testing.

Member Naomi Fowler said the event was a success and members of the public joined in.

She said: “These animals suffer in unimaginable ways and the majority of the public don't know where their money goes.

“The animals include cats, dogs, bunnies and lots of other furry friends.

“Letting animals get tortured like this is cruel and they are not ours to do as we wish. Testing on animals is a huge issue and most people don't know the horrors.”

Professor Peter Weissberg, medical director of BHF, said he was “saddened” there was a protest outside the shop and the charity said it was involved with animal research and not testing.

He said: “We’re dedicated to saving lives by developing better treatments and cures for heart and circulatory conditions that affect the lives of more than seven million people across the UK.

 

“We understand people have strong views about research involving animals and this isn’t a decision we take lightly. We only fund animal research when there is no alternative and the research is likely to lead to a medical benefit for patients.”

 

“We hope our loyal supporters and members of the public continue to support our lifesaving work by shopping with us.”