Gary Lineker accused of goat cruelty by animal rights group Peta

Peta, an organization advocating for the fair treatment of animals, has strongly criticized Next for including mohair in a collection of stylish suits promoted on the internet by Gary Lineker.

The sports presenter from the BBC, aged 62, has appeared in online commercials for the popular retailer, showcasing different poses in a mohair suit worth £225.

Activists have strongly criticized Next for profiting from the contentious wool, alleging that mohair is acquired through methods that are both cruel and inhumane towards Angora goats.

Yvonne Taylor, Peta's corporate projects VP, expressed on Friday: "The majority of customers would be appalled to know that mohair sweaters and clothing are produced using the hair of mistreated goats who let out cries of distress when restrained."

Lineker donning the Barberis Italian Mohair slim-cut suit as a fashionable choice

They forcefully remove their hair from their bodies using metallic rakes, causing them to tremble and be left with bloody injuries.

Goats, being creatures hunted by others, are extremely frightened when restrained, unable to move, and lacking protection.

Numerous popular retail brands on the high street have prohibited the use of mohair, with renowned names like Marks & Spencer, Gap, H&M, and Zara taking a stance against it.

After being informed about the extensive mistreatment of animals in the mohair industry in South Africa, Peta alleges that Next made a commitment to cease supporting it.

Lineker is also the ambassador of potato chip company, Walkers.

A group of Angora goats in the vast plains of Great Karoo, South Africa.

Regarding this matter, Lineker questioned, "What could be the motivation behind desiring an individual to wear a deceased bear on their cranium?"

After Peta expressed their strong disapproval, Next promptly addressed the concerns by affirming their exclusive utilization of ethically obtained mohair for their merchandise.

The products of Responsible Mohair Standard (RMS) are guaranteed to meet the level of responsibility.

Next stated to MailOnline: "We exclusively utilize mohair bearing the RMS certification. Other forms of mohair lacking RMS certification are prohibited within our company."