Kirklees Together

An East Bierley livestock keeper has been successfully prosecuted by our Animal Health team for numerous breaches of Animal Health legislation.

Following a one year investigation, on 4 November 2024, Mr Angus Heron of Hunsworth Lane, East Bierley, failed to attend Huddersfield Magistrates Court. In his absence he was found guilty of17 offences relating to animal by product offences and unregistered animal movements.

During the period of October 2023 and January 2024 a total of six bovine carcasses were discovered by officers on land where Mr Heron keeps a number of his cattle. Mr Heron failed to remove the carcasses directly from the land and failed to prevent other animals and birds having access to the carcasses. He also, failed to comply with two of the notices issued to remove the carcasses. In addition, he failed to register the death of five cattle and failed to produce records of proof of disposal of the carcasses to an approved premises.

The offences were as follows:

• Four offences of failing to dispose of a bovine carcass directly.
• Four offences of failing to prevent animal or birds having access to carcasses.
• Four offences of failing to notify the death of cattle within the appropriate timeframe.
• Two offences of failing to comply with an animal by product Notice.
• Three offences of failing to produce records when required to do so.

Following the nationwide disease outbreaks of BSE and foot and mouth in 2001, which were devastating for the farming community and the economy as a whole, legislation was introduced to help prevent these disease outbreaks. Cattle identification and animal by products legislation, which includes on farm deadstock, are two key legislative measures. The potential spread of disease via dead livestock not being dealt with and disposed of appropriately is significant.

Councillor Munir Ahmed, cabinet member for environment and highways said:

“It is imperative that livestock keepers adhere to the requirements of the legislation in order to prevent outbreaks of disease that can have catastrophic local and national impacts.  It is hoped that the outcome of this prosecution serves as a reminder to all livestock keepers of the importance of animal by product compliance for the protection of public health and our national herd.”

Anyone who has livestock and would like advice or guidance on legislation can contact Kirklees Council’s Animal Health Team.  For more information visit: https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/countryside-parks-and-open-spaces/animal-health.aspx