manchester

showbiz

Celebrity BB: Police swoop on Pete's 'gorilla' coat

BIT CHILLY?: Pete's had his coat taken

Officers from Herts Constabulary took action after receiving a flood of complaints from viewers.

The Dead Or Alive star has claimed his coat is made from the fur of the endangered animals.

A Herts Police spokeswoman said: "Following a number of complaints from members of the public regarding a coat taken into the Big Brother house by Pete Burns, the coat in question has been handed across to police officers from Herts Constabulary.

"The coat will now be tested to determine its origin.

"Herts Constabulary will take positive action to investigate any allegation of criminal activity."

Investigation

A show spokesman said: "We have passed the coat to police for investigation. Pete is aware of the situation."

Last week Government minister Jim Knight warned Burns could face jail if the coat turns out to be made from gorilla fur.

Trading in endangered species carries a penalty of up to five years in prison and an unlimited fine.

Surgically-enhanced singer Burns had a furious row with animal-lover Jodie Marsh over the coat, which she claimed was cruel.

Related stories