A CONTROVERSIAL snake photographer is battling to ensure his livelihood survives a council bid to rid the streets of Blackpool of "unsuitable" traders and touters.

The owner of the only snake photography business in the town, Phil Prior, is to state his case at Blackpool Borough Council's Licensing and Appeals Committee meeting.

The councillors are considering adopting Section 29 of the County of Lancashire Act to strictly regulate the activities of some touters and street photographers in main tourist areas and other sites across the town.

It also requires council consent for offering or exposing for hire any vehicle, chair, seat or any animal to ride. Phil owns around 13 snakes and says he prides himself on their happy and healthy disposition.

"All my snake handlers are well trained and look after the snakes with great care and affection," he said.

When asked what he thought about the proposed ban, he added: "We aren't approaching people at all and don't cause any nuisance. All the complaints come from people who don't really know what they are talking about.

"I have nothing to hide -- all my snakes are in good condition and extremely well looked after. We change the snakes used regularly, every two hours or so."

Phil added: "Snake photographers have been around for more than 20 years and have proven to be a very popular attraction to visitors of the town, if not for the photograph then for the education of the nature of these animals.

"It would be a great loss to the town if prohibition was enforced and the snakes were taken off the promenade."

A council spokesman said: "The council is aware that the use of animals by people trading as photographers is objectionable to some residents and visitors. Consents granted would have regard to the views of all interested parties."