The Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh has dropped plans to use a live rabbit on stage as part of a show after complaints from an animal welfare group.

The theatre says the complaints came despite it following RSPCA guidelines on animal performers and having close consultations with the rabbit's owner.

Approval for the production of Local Hero was also granted by the city council after they agreed that licensing standards were met.

However, after receiving several complaints from the Rabbit Welfare Association and its supporters, they decided that the rabbit would no longer be included in the show.

In a statement the theatre said: "The Lyceum have been considering the option of using a live rabbit on stage, accordingly we followed RSPCA guidelines on animal performers, consulted closely with the rabbit's owner and met the licensing standards of the City of Edinburgh Council to receive their approval.

"All were happy with our proposed use and that the welfare of the animal had been appropriately considered. Accordingly a license was granted by the council.

"We have however since experienced a number of complaints from a rabbit welfare group and its supporters. In light of all the messages and comments regarding the use of a rabbit in our stage production, the decision has been taken not to include a rabbit in the show."