BURTON FLEMING FARMER FINED OVER ANIMAL WELFARE OFFENCES
A farmer has been ordered to pay £1,124 after neglecting the treatment of a cow with a horn that had grown into its eye, along with being found guilty of two other animal welfare violations.David Southwell, aged 65 from West Lane, Burton Fleming, appeared at Beverley Magistrates Court on Wednesday, August 13, to face charges related to these offences.
He admitted guilt on June 25, acknowledging that he caused the cow unnecessary pain by not addressing the horn growth, failed to provide prompt care, and kept cattle in unsafe conditions likely to cause injury.
The court learned that on November 4, an animal health officer responded to a farm inspection following a report from a member of the public about a cow with a horn penetrating its eye.
Southwell stated he had been unable to capture the animal in a different pasture earlier but had known about the issue for about three weeks and intended to have the horn trimmed.
He was advised to seek immediate veterinary intervention or consider euthanasia, which he chose to do.
The officer also discovered other cattle housed in a poorly maintained, open-sided barn with fencing held together by baler bands.
The animals had access to dangerous objects such as sharp-edged troughs and broken gates, risking injury.
Magistrates characterized the incident as “unacceptable,” fining Southwell £326, ordering him to pay costs of £668.13 and a victim surcharge of £130.40.
Lyn Healing, a local government councillor overseeing public protection, said: “It is crucial that livestock owners maintain high standards at all times to ensure animal welfare.
Our Animal Health Officers will investigate these matters thoroughly, and the council is dedicated to taking formal action when necessary.”
