Brit royal guards seek bear fur substitute

LONDON, Sept. 3 (UPI) -- British officials, reacting to animal rights groups' complaints, said they are seeking alternatives to the bear skin used in royal guards' famous hats.

The British Ministry of Defense announced Wednesday it is actively looking for a replacement fabric for the iconic uniform pieces but stopped short of promising to cease use of bear fur, CNN reported Wednesday.

The announcement came after ministry officials met Tuesday with representatives from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals to discuss the bear skin hats. The ministry said it is planning an event to allow makers of synthetic fabrics to submit their bear skin substitutes for consideration and PETA has been invited to attend.

PETA said it is also seeking new design ideas for the hats from big name designers including Stella McCartney and Vivienne Westwood as well as up-and-comers from design schools worldwide.