Carmarthenshire sheep farmer prosecuted

A CARMARTHENSHIRE farmer has been prosecuted for causing sheep unnecessary suffering.

John Albert Clayton pleaded guilty at Carmarthen Magistrates Court to two offences of failing to dispose of a sheep carcass correctly, two offences of causing unnecessary suffering to a sheep, one offence of failing to maintain records, and three offences of failing to send a copy of the movement document in relation to the sheep to Carmarthenshire County Council within three days of the animals arriving.

After receiving a complaint about carcasses and the welfare of the sheep a council animal health officer and a veterinary officer from the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) visited fields rented by 68-year-old Mr Clayton behind Pont Abraham Service Station in July 2012.

There were approximately 70 ewes and lambs, which although a few were lame and some had not been shorn, appeared to be looking well and caused no immediate concern. After walking these fields the officers found a total of two carcasses in various states of decomposition and a few bones.

They found a ewe lying on the floor, unable to stand. The vet diagnosed mastitis and also that she was infested with maggots. A short distance from the ewe they came across a lamb that also lying on the floor which had maggots.

The officers were unable to contact Mr Clayton on his mobile phone and put down the two sheep to prevent further suffering.

They went back to the fields the next day and found Mr Clayton gathering the sheep to be sheared. He said he had last seen the sheep three days before and there were no problems then.

After checking the Animal Movement Licensing System the officer could not find any movements of sheep being moved on or off the fields behind Pont Abraham Service Station by Mr Clayton. She visited the fields a month later and found no problems.

Mr Clayton, of Rhoslas, Tregunnor, Carmarthen, was sentenced to a 12-month Community Order, with 12 months supervision and 200 hours unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay a £60 Victim Surcharge.

Executive board member for environmental and public protection Cllr Jim Jones said: “It is vital that farmers take proper care of their animals, check them regularly, and ensure that that they are given prompt veterinary treatment when needed.

“The council will prosecute when necessary to ensure that animals are properly looked after.”