A MALNOURISHED marmoset that was kept in a birdcage in a bedroom has been given a new lease of life at Monkey World.

The ape rescue centre near Bovington took in the South American monkey called Milo following a court case.

Dr Alison Cronin at the monkey sanctuary said Milo’s treatment had been “appalling”.

Dr Cronin said Milo was recovering well, but he was “one of the lucky ones”.

She added: “Sadly many monkeys suffer a similar fate in the British pet trade today.”

Richard Walton, 32, of Whitgift Close, Basingstoke, was given a nine-month community order at Basingstoke Magistrates Court.

He was also ordered to pay £160 costs.

Walton had earlier pleaded guilty to animal welfare charges.