A COUPLE who attempted to smuggle endangered tortoises into the UK from Corfu have been banned from keeping reptiles for 10 years.

Michael Gates and Carol Wormley, both 42, of Woodend Road, Walthamstow, were arrested after arriving at Stansted Airport on a flight back from the island on July 17 this year.

Officers found seven tortoises in their hand and hold luggage.

The couple have since admitted breaking wildlife protection laws.

Prosecutor Angela Hughes said the creatures had been taken from their natural habitat and packed in bags and suitcases.

Miss Hughes said the creatures, one of which was taped to stop it moving, were kept in the couple's hotel room before they were smuggled onto the plane.

Jeremy Sirrell, representing Gates, said his client had been trying to rescue the tortoises after seeing them being kicked around by boys.

David Dadds, defending Wormley, said his client had ''gone along'' with Gates' wishes and had not understood that what she was doing was wrong.

Gates admitted causing unnecessary suffering, failing to ensure animals' needs were met and transporting live animals taken from the wild. He was ordered to carrying out 150 hours of unpaid work.

Wormley admitted failing to ensure animals' needs were met and transporting live animals taken from the wild.

She was ordered to carry out 80 hours of unpaid work.

The arrest of the couple was carried out as part of a joint operation involving Waltham Forest and Essex Police.

Sgt Rowan Healey, Waltham Forest wildlife crime officer, said: “I would like to take the opportunity to remind the public that the Met Police are willing and able, together with our partners, to take action against all wildlife crime.

“Those that deal in the illegal pet trade can have a significant adverse effect on endangered wild animal populations".

Any suspicions of wildlife crime in the borough can be reported by calling 7230 8890.