PETA stands by Russell Brand

PETA has stood by Russell Brand despite facing complaints about his position as a spokesman for its Vegetarian Starter Kit, reports NME.

The animal rights group's director Robbie LeBlanc insisted that Brand will remain on the cover of its new booklets in spite of the furore caused by his prank calls to Andrew Sachs.

"The cover will have him on it because Mr Sachs, who is also a PETA supporter, has accepted Mr Brand's apology, and that's good enough for us," said LeBlanc.

Brand, who was named PETA's Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrity in 2006 and 2007, follows stars including Sir Paul McCartney in fronting a PETA vegetarian campaign.