JACKSON PRAISED FOR PLANNING ANIMAL-FREE SHOWS

Jackson came under fire from activists at People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) after it was rumoured the King Of Pop would feature a variety of exotic creatures in his This Is It run at London's O2 Arena this summer (Jul09).

But organisers have now confirmed no live animals will be onstage at the gigs - and PETA bosses are delighted by the news.

PETA Europe Director Robbie LeBlanc says, "Wild animals do not belong in noisy arenas surrounded by screaming fans and loud music.

"We are thrilled that Michael won't compound his past mistakes by using animals in his final UK shows. Bubbles wouldn't have approved."

Jackson has previously come under fire from PETA supporters for the menagerie of animals he kept in his private zoo at his Neverland ranch in California.