A BOLTON artist whose animal art is inspired by the news and current affairs has unveiled his latest work — after being moved by the tragic killing of Cecil the lion.

The shooting of the lion by American dentist Walter Palmer sparked international outrage after it emerged he had paid $50,000 to track and kill the majestic lion.

Les Calderbank, aged 82, from Lostock, is a keen artist and regularly paints the pets of friends and neighbours.

He read about Cecil's unfortunate fate in the newspapers and was struck by an eye-catching photograph of the lion with his cubs.

Mr Calderbank spent time in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe while he was on national service, and went on some trips into "the bush".

He said he was disgusted at the killing and was inspired to recreate the photograph.

The pensioner said: "I read about the story and saw this beautiful photograph and thought it would be nice to paint it.

"I think it is disgusting now and it is no surprise that this chap is in hiding virtually, now, in America.

"But I think the guy who has taken his money is the most responsible really and should be brought to justice as well.

"I don't think anybody should do that. No animal deserves to be butchered."

Mr Palmer, from Minneapolis, Minnesota, shot the lion with a bow and arrow after it had been lured by bait, according to guide Theo Bronkhorst, who faces charges in Zimbabwe over the killing.

Cecil's skin and head were to be sent to taxidermist before being exported to the US for mounting but Mr Bronkhorst was advised to hand it in to authorities instead.

US wildlife officials have confirmed they are investigating the circumstances of the lion's death.

In 2013, Mr Calderbank painted Westhoughton 'jackadoodle' Billy, who has wheels for back legs, after being moved by a story in The Bolton News.

Environment minister Rory Stewart said the UK was looking "very carefully" at whether to ban legally-hunted animal "trophies" being brought in to the country.

Mr Stewart highlighted the issue as he announced a £5 million fund for initiatives which tackle the "barbaric illegal trade" in wildlife that threatens species such as rhinos, tigers and elephants.