A pub in England has been asked to change its name by PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) due to it being "derogatory" and "unfair" to foxes.

The animal rights group has made the request to The Sly Old Fox pub in Birmingham.

It wants the word 'sly' to be changed to 'clever' in a bid to reflect society’s “ever-evolving empathy for animals”.

As reported by The Telegraph, in a letter sent to the pub, Elisa Allen, Peta’s vice-president of programmes, claimed that derogatory descriptions of foxes have led to the “violent persecution” of the animal.

“We’re sure you’ll agree that language is powerful and can reinforce negative stereotypes,” she said.

“Derogatory descriptions of foxes sadly perpetuate their unearned reputations as ‘pests’, which leads to the violent persecution of these animals: they may be poisoned or hunted, often leaving behind helpless babies.”

She continued: “We hope you agree that these magnificent animals deserve our respect.

"You can help reframe how we talk about them, which would go some way towards protecting them from cruel acts like being dug out of their homes, chased across the countryside, and viciously attacked by dogs.”

PETA has offered to help with rebranding costs as it could "inspire other pubs to take note and would go some way towards encouraging respect".

Ms Allen continued: “If we have the opportunity to use language that is kinder, more respectful, and actually more accurate towards other living beings, why wouldn’t we?

“The term ‘sly’ carries negative connotations like ‘cunning’ and ‘deceitful’, which are unfair and inaccurate perceptions of foxes. The ‘Clever Fox’ has a far better ring to it – and is far more in line with who these animals are.”

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It is yet unknown as to whether the management will change the pub’s name.

PETA has approached other establishments in the past to modernise their names.

These include suggesting Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in St Albans change to Ye Olde Clever Cocks which, they said, would "reflect society’s rejection of needless violence and to help celebrate the chicken".