Related Stories On Friday, Bobby Roberts, 69, of the Bobby Roberts Super Circus, was found guilty of mistreating the 58-year-old elephant. His wife Moira, 75, was cleared of the same charges. Campaigners say her "shocking" mistreatment was an example of why animals should not be used in the circus. Others say the Anne case was a one off and decry moves to ban circus animals as the killing of a tradition. The use of animals in the circus dates back about 150 years. Before that time, and before the advent of public zoos, those wanting to lay eyes on a menagerie of wild animals would head to a fair. During the 19th Century, animals were taken on tour and shown to an eager public. Later, they were combined with traditional circus shows. But that link between animals and the circus could soon be at an end. Legislation is being drawn up for a ban on circus animals by the government. A polar bear jumps through a flaming hoop during a circus show in the 1960s 'Tough licensing scheme' The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said its work on the bill to ban wild animals in the circus was a work in progress. And until the ban comes into force, which may not be for several years, Defra is introducing what it says will be a "tough licensing scheme" it claims will "ensure the welfare of wild animals". A spokeswoman for Defra said the new licensing scheme would