Bond in animal rights row

Producers on the latest James Bond movie have come under fire from animal rights activists over fears horses may be injured or killed.

Bond 22 reaches its climax against the backdrop of historic bareback horse race the Palio, which takes place in the Tuscan hill town of Siena, Italy.

The race is renowned for being extremely dangerous and campaigners are predicting horses will be at risk of injury or even death during filming. They claim that 50 horses have died in the race since 1970 with many more maimed.

Shooting on the scene is due to commence on Thursday.