In a recent development, two farmers from the West Midlands have been successfully prosecuted after an investigation carried out by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). The investigation revealed severe neglect and breaches of animal welfare legislation on their respective farms.
The United Kingdom prides itself on having some of the highest animal welfare standards globally, ensuring the protection and well-being of farm animals through comprehensive legislation. The APHA is dedicated to upholding these standards and is committed to taking robust enforcement action against those found in violation.
The sentencing took place at Telford Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 17 October. Charles Gibson, the owner of Leonards Farm, was given a 20-week jail sentence, suspended for 12 months. Additionally, Gibson was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and pay fines amounting to £4,000. He also received a lifetime ban from keeping all animals.
Ms. Alison Bailey, another farmer involved in the case, was given a community order and ordered to complete 80 hours of unpaid work. She was also required to pay £1,000 in costs and a victim surcharge of £90. Similar to Gibson, Bailey received a lifetime ban from keeping animals.
The company, Wheelton Farms Ltd, represented by Director Martin Wheelton, faced substantial penalties as well. They were fined a total of £32,000 and ordered to pay £7,500 in costs.
The investigation began in May 2020 when APHA inspectors, in collaboration with Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards Animal Health team, visited Leonards Farm at Biddulph Moor. Shockingly, the inspectors discovered livestock, including young calves, being kept in deplorable conditions. Animals were found in pens alongside deceased animals, and the pens themselves were unsuitable. The livestock were provided with minimal food, water, and dry bedding, while several calves were found to be sick.
Furthermore, the inspectors uncovered untagged calves, indicating a failure to comply with traceability requirements for bovine animals. Following the initial visit, APHA conducted multiple subsequent visits throughout 2020 and 2021 to ensure compliance.
Aled Edwards, Head of England Field Delivery at APHA, emphasised the agency’s commitment to investigating all allegations and taking breaches of animal welfare legislation seriously. He expressed satisfaction with the court’s sentences, hoping that they would serve as a deterrent to others. Edwards also commended the successful collaboration between APHA and local authorities throughout the investigation.
It is crucial for all livestock farms, regardless of their size, to adhere to the relevant legislation, including comprehensive environmental and animal welfare rules. The APHA encourages anyone with serious concerns about livestock welfare to report them promptly by contacting 03000 200 301 or emailing [email protected]. Immediate action can be taken to address the issues and ensure the well-being of the animals involved.
