More than 30 protesters braved the cold to campaign against The Great British Circus, which opened at the Rugby Road site on Tuesday.

The Wild Animal Spectacular features lions, tigers, zebras, camels, llamas, horses, ponies, goats and reindeer.

Rugby campaigner Janet Cummings said: "The purpose of the protest was to try and dissuade people from going in and to explain the terrible suffering that goes on.

"Common sense tells you that wild animals should be left in their natural habitat."

However, circus organiser Martin Lacey said: "Our animals receive the best possible care. We feed them on balanced nutritious food, make sure they have plenty of fresh water and provide them with a positive, healthy environment."

But Miss Cummings added: "We are not living in the 18th Century any more. These days, people can switch on the Discovery Channel or go abroad and see them in the wild. And where are the animals kept when they are not on the road? I think it's disgraceful."

And Judith Haw, spokesperson for RSPCA West Region, said: "The RSPCA is opposed to the use of animals for any form of entertainment where distress or suffering is likely to be caused.

"The society believes that circuses with animals are unable to guarantee an on-going high standard of care and welfare, they do not provide any useful function in respect of the animals, they do not have an educational role and they do not assist in species conservation.

"Put simply, we believe that animals do not belong in a circus.

"The residents of Rugby should also be aware that Rugby Borough Council support us on this issue and have placed a ban on circuses using animals on council-owned land."

Protesters will be outside the ground every night until the show finishes on Sunday.