Sir Brian May has quit the RSPCA in the wake of an investigation into conditions at a flagship Marks & Spencer farm. The Queen guitarist, 77, announced his resignation as vice-president of the animal rights charity after more than 12 years in the role.

Queen guitarist Sir Brian May has quit as the RSPCA's vice-president over what he called “damning evidence” of animal welfare failings related to its food certification label. BBC News reported on Thursday that the association had to run spot checks on more than 200 'RSPCA Assured' farms to ensure they met its own standards.

A review has been launched into RSPCA Assured, which indicates that meat, fish, eggs and dairy products have been produced to strict standards.

Queen guitarist Sir Brian May has announced his resignation as a vice president of the Royal Society For The Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals (RSPCA). “It is with profound sadness and not without massive soul-searching that today I have to offer my resignation as a vice-president of the RSPCA,

Queen guitarist Brian May has resigned from his role as vice president of the RSPCA, citing “appalling” animal welfare standards.

RSPCA Assured has launched a 'comprehensive' review into the scheme as Queen guitarist Brian May quits his role as vice-president over animal welfare claims.