The two animal-free circuses that were in Malta over the Christmas period are now packing up their bags after presenting a number of shows for the Maltese.

The fact that circus performances did not feature any acts involving animals was welcomed by animal rights campaigners.

Circus Animal Rights Coalition, which had staged a number of protests against animal acts in the past, said this year's shows proved its past campaigns to raise awareness "against the exploitation and cruelty" in circuses have been effective.

They also welcomed the fact that people were becoming increasingly aware that animal circuses were neither entertaining nor educational.

The coalition emphasised that "an end to animal circuses doesn't mean an end to fun", pointing out there were many circuses that were entertaining without featuring animals in their acts.

The coalition reiterated its stance that "behind the glitter and glitz of animal circuses lies a cruel world of untold animal suffering".

Animals used in circuses were unwilling participants, the coalition maintained, adding that animals had to travel long distances in unsuitable and precarious conditions.

The climate of the localities these animals visited could also be unstable for their natural temperament.

The coalition is made up of: Moviment Graffitti, Animal Rights Malta, Alternattiva Demokratika Żgħażagħ, Subculture-animal Friends, Cetfree, the Abandoned Animal Association, World Animal Conscience, Hakuna Matata, Nature Trust, Noah's Ark, Island Sanctuary, International Animal Rescue (Malta), World Animal Conscience, SOS Animals, St Francis Foundation for Animals, Yelp for Help and Ananda Marga.