[M X]

Apprentice hopeful Ben Clarke could reportedly be under investigation from the RSPCA after swallowing a live goldfish at a party.

The trainee stockbroker, 22, joined friends at a bash near Dalkeith, Midlothian, when he decided to consume the pet in a shot glass, according to the News Of The World.

One partygoer said: "Ben was out of control. Yes, it was a drunken party, but how can anyone defend eating a live animal just for a laugh?"

Clarke may now face an inquiry into animal cruelty after the tabloid sent on pictures of his antics to the RSPCA.

"Ben and his brother were at the top table, but by this point everyone was milling about and mixing. Obviously a lot of booze had gone down and attention suddenly turned to the goldfish bowls," the source added.

"Someone made a joke about eating one of the fish. If you were going to bet on anyone taking things too far it would be safe to put all your money on Ben."

Source - DS.