AS a lepidopterist (butterfly collector) I am frequently asked why I collect and study insects when I could be causing them distress.

I am therefore amazed at the popularity of the show 'I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here.'

Viewers have witnessed torture during the latest 'bushtucker trials.' I am not referring to the contestants but to the unwilling animal participants whose suffering generates hilarity amongst the broadcasters and camp members.

Rats, intelligent animals, being forced into a sealed box with water rising, would clearly be caused maximum distress as, I am sure, they would think their end was near.

To see insects and grubs being chewed and spat out partially alive, again presumably to the amusement of the viewing public, I find detestable.

How can you ask children to respect life and nature when adults take such pleasure in its needless destruction?

I know many will think I am over-reacting but when activists can become incensed over the suffering of animals in the interest of science, how will they react when they witness scenes of such distress purely being performed for amusement only.

P C GOLDER, Grimshaw Street, Darwen.