Animal stars are at the forefront of a full scale billboard campaign in Manchester's Media City this month, which is designed to promote animal welfare on film sets.

The animals, including Chilli, who stars as Linda Biscuits in Channel 4's Late Night Lycett, are being beamed onto a giant billboard at the Salford film mecca to promote Vet on Set, which shadows animals which take part in TV and film work.

In conjunction with sister company Animal Direction, which provides animal talent for productions, the billboard is stopping traffic in the Manchester film and TV hotspot. 

Along with other animal stars, Chilli took part in a special video advert for the Vet on Set business that her owner Veterinary nurse Rachel Bean helped to found and co-runs.

Vet On Set works with the film industry to ensure that animal welfare is upheld while filming on some of the nation's favourite TV shows takes place.

Rachel, who founded the business with partner Davina Hamilton-Maddox, said: "Everyone loves seeing animal stars on TV and at the cinema, but those animals are like any actors, they need to be kept happy, well cared for and comfortable or they will not reach their full amazing potential.

"Vet on Set is something that we are really proud of, and the animals that we meet are really amazing, from seagulls to llamas and spiders it's wonderful the range of animals who take part in these productions, we love it, and so do the animals thanks to their welfare being our top priority."

Any media production working with an animal model or actor during a TV commercial, show, film or online video is responsible for their safety and welfare.

Vet on Set provides qualified professionals via a UK-wide network, who provide outreach, advice and shadowing on sets which have included films, TV and adverts.

Rachel added: "We hope to spread the word even more by producing this advert, but also to remind those in charge about their responsibilities with regard to the animals that they hire for their productions.

"There is no reason why animals shouldn't take part in these things, but the right support must be in place."

To find out more about Vet on Set go to www.vet-on-set.co.uk