TWO Ceredigion farmers have appeared before magistrates in Aberystwyth in cases relating to failures to comply with requirements on disposing of animal carcasses.

The first case involved David Jones of Brynawel, Silian, Lampeter. On 4 March, Ceredigion County Council received a complaint of fallen stock on land and a visit was undertaken by Officers of the Public Protection Department.

Officers found several sheep carcasses that had been left to decompose adjacent to a right of way on the land creating an animal and public health risk, it was clear they had been there for some time. A notice was issued to clear the decomposing carcasses, however this was only partially done by David Jones. He pleaded guilty to two offences of failing to dispose of carcasses.

In sentencing, the Magistrates took into account that the local authority had to request David Jones to clear carcasses on his land on three separate occasions. David Jones was sentenced to two years conditional discharge, and ordered to pay £1207.49 that covered the costs of the Council, and a victim surcharge.

The Magistrates also heard the case of Mr. Gwilym Jenkins of Tynberth Farm, Tregaron after he pleaded guilty to three Animal By-Products offences.

The local authority received a number of complaints relating to carcasses in the fields at Penlone Farm, another holding farmed by Gwilym Jenkins.

An inspection took place on 23 April where officers found 15 carcasses in varying states of decomposition.

A notice was issued to clear the decomposing carcasses, and confirmation was provided this work was undertaken. However, on checking the disposal note it was found to have been forged, and the carcasses had been transported elsewhere and dumped. Gwilym Jenkins pleaded guilty to failing to dispose of 15 carcasses, failing to comply with the notice, and also knowingly giving false information to an officer.

In sentencing, the Magistrates also took into account that the Local Authority had to request Gwilym Jenkins to clear carcasses on his land on 3 separate occasions. For the three offences concerning the 15 carcasses he was fined £2,500 and ordered to pay the council’s costs of £1437.82, and a victim surcharge of £190. A total of £4,127.82.

A council spokesman said: “The Public Protection team is committed to providing support and guidance to all businesses on how to comply with the law. The vast majority comply with legislation in support of the industry and the high values it holds, however here there are repeat offences then it must bring such offences to the attention of the court.”