Prankster could face court action

Comedian Guy Venables could be facing court action after a shark he swam with died unexpectedly.

The smooth-hound shark died at Brighton Sea Life Centre just days after Venables dived naked into its tank for a £1 bet.

Marine biologists are now carrying out a post mortem to see if the 12-year-old fish died from the stress. Their normal lifespan is around 25 years.

A publicist for the aquarium told the BBC: "The sight of someone swimming around would have caused a lot of stress because they are in an enclosed area and would have been frightened."

On Wednesday Mr Venables visited the centre to show his remorse but staff were still too angry to speak to him, even though they had previously invited him to look around.

Mr Venables, 35, of Hove, said: "I do feel remorse about the whole thing. It is sad that something has died."

The stunt was to promote his comedy night at the city's Komedia club.

Published: 12 Jun 2003