Kirklees farmer fined over £2k for animal health offences
A farmer from Birkenshaw has been prosecuted and fined almost £2.5K for animal health offences.
The defendant, Mr Angus Heron of Hunsworth Lane, East Bierley, pleaded guilty to 11 offences at Huddersfield Magistrates Court on 13 November 2023, relating to the identification of cattle, unregistered animal movements and not producing the necessary farm records for his cattle which were sited in various locations across the Borough.
The offences came to light during a farm inspection when several of Mr Heron’s cattle were found to be untagged, without passports, and not registered with the British Cattle Movement Service (BCMS). He had therefore not recorded the movements, births and deaths of several animals. In addition, he failed to produce his holding register when asked.
Cllr Yusra Hussian, Cabinet Member for Culture and Greener Kirklees said:
“Breaches of animal health legislation of this nature could lead to outbreaks of diseases such as BSE and Foot and Mouth that can have a devastating impact on our communities, both locally and nationally.
“Our Animal Health team worked hard over two years to offer Mr Heron the help and guidance needed to adhere to the legislation, unfortunately, he did not carry out the necessary actions which led to this prosecution.
“I hope this serves as a warning to other livestock keepers in Kirklees, that we take the importance of cattle identification and traceability very seriously and will take action against those who put our farming community at risk.”
In total, Mr Heron was fined £1350.00 with a victim surcharge of £135.00 and costs of £1000.00, a total of £2,485.
Anyone who has livestock and would like advice or guidance on legislation can contact the Kirklees Council Animal Health team – visit their website for more information: Animal health | Kirklees Council
More information on the requirements for keeping cattle visit: Keeping cattle, bison and buffalo in England and Wales – GOV.UK