Animal activists have demanded the release of two 80-year-old turtles from a “life sentence” at Sea Life Brighton.

Campaigners from Close Sealife are calling for green turtles Lulu and Gulliver to be freed from the aquarium, which is the oldest in the world.

The group describes the turtles’ current living situation as a “life sentence” but a spokesman from Sea Life Brighton said Lulu, who was rescued 70 years ago when she was confiscated by customs, does not have the “essential skills” to survive in an open water sanctuary and that her current home offers her a “safe space” to explore.

They said every marine animal in the aquarium’s care is cared for “respectfully and ethically” and rebuked Close Sealife’s accusations.

Close Sealife wants the pair to be relocated to a sanctuary that would “provide an environment as near to Lulu and Gulliver's native habitat as possible, where they could live out their lives and experience the quality of life they truly deserve”.

Read more: WATCH: heartwarming moment one of the world's oldest Sea Turtle couples were reunited

“Instead, they are held captive at Sea Life Brighton, where they are permanently submerged in water and have no access to dry land or natural light,” said the petition.

“Forced to live underground and endure disorientating colour-changing artificial light shows and a relentless soundtrack.

“Imagine how frustrating and boring it is for Lulu, over 80 years captive in a tank?

“Literally a life sentence.”

A spokesman from Sea Life, said the aim of any rescue is to release the animal back into the wild, but that this is not always possible.

“Each of our rescued animals is considered in its own unique condition and following expert and veterinary advice,” they said.

“The aim of any rescue of an animal is to release that animal back into the wild, however following veterinary and expert advice, sometimes this is not possible due to the nature of the animal’s condition.

“Sea Life rescues and releases over 50 injured or rescue turtles every year but sadly Lulu is not suitable for release into the wild or an open water sanctuary because she does not have the essential skills necessary to survive.

“Her rehoming came with strict welfare measures and medical checks, as well as a programme of enrichment.

“Her new home in Brighton offers Lulu a safe space to explore, including a dedicated beach area and numerous places to dive, take gentle exercise and rest.

“Sea Life places the very highest priority on the welfare of all its animals including Lulu, which is supported by an experienced animal care team, marine biologists and world-renowned external veterinary consultants.

“Every marine animal is cared for respectfully and ethically by our dedicated and highly experienced staff.”

The petition has so far garnered just over 300 signatures.