Noel Edmonds criticized for releasing live lobsters into Peel Harbour

Former TV presenter Noel Edmonds, 77, posted an Instagram video showing himself and his wife Liz Davies buying two live lobsters from a farm shop on the Isle of Man and releasing them into Peel Harbour. The clip was quickly removed after widespread criticism.

A marine biologist and other commenters warned that releasing captive lobsters can spread disease, introduce non‑native genetics and breach the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which prohibits re‑immersing captured lobsters without a licence. The farm‑shop owner claimed the lobsters were healthy, while a recent UK law bans boiling lobsters alive, reflecting growing animal‑welfare concerns.

The incident sparked a social‑media backlash, with users labeling it “lobstergate” and questioning the legality and ecological impact of the act.