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Response to Recent Claims Regarding the Norbreck Castle Hotel Event

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The International Herpetological Society (IHS) strongly refutes the misleading and factually inaccurate claims made in the recent press release by the Animal Protection Agency (APA) and associated organisations concerning our upcoming event at the Norbreck Castle Hotel, Blackpool, on 10th August 2025.

Contrary to APA’s assertions, our events are fully compliant with UK law, including the Animal Welfare Act 2006, the Pet Animals Act 1951, and the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018. These are not markets, but regulated gatherings of responsible breeders, hobbyists, and educators committed to animal welfare, ethical husbandry, and conservation.

Key points of clarification:

  • Animal Welfare: Animal care is paramount at IHS events. All animals are transported and displayed in temporary containers for the animals safety during the event only. Two veterinary professionals are always present, and any concerns are taken extremely seriously
  • Legal Compliance: IHS works closely with local authorities, venue operators, and legal advisors to ensure all activities fall within the scope of the law. No unlawful trading takes place.
  • Mischaracterisation: The repeated use of emotive and sensational language—such as “sordid trade,” “cramming thousands of sensitive animals,” and references to “takeaway containers” — is not only misleading, but offensive to the many responsible keepers who participate in our events.
  • Venue Change: No event has been cancelled, refused or changed venues due to welfare issues or legal contravention by the IHS. This is due to adverse publicity and harassment tactics by APA and similar.

Conclusion

The IHS has a proud history spanning over five decades of promoting the responsible care of reptiles and amphibians as a non-profit, member run society. The IHS continually work with our members, authorities, and animal welfare experts to ensure our events are safe and lawful. It is deeply upsetting to be constantly under fire from organisations who profit from misinformation and harassment.

We urge the public, media, and venues not to be swayed by ideologically driven campaigns that distort the truth and demonise a responsible, knowledgeable, and compassionate community.

International Herpetological Society