A BLAENAU Gwent farmer has been fined for not properly looking after dead livestock.

Terrance John Tapscott, who owns Lower Farm, Tredegar, appeared at Newport Magistrates Court on Friday, November 8.

In April, officers from Powys County Council, working jointly with staff from Blaenau Gwent Council, were alerted to a number of sheep carcases at varying stages of decomposition that had been discovered on the farm.

And an inspection held on April 4 found 48 dead sheep on the farm. The correct storage, transportation and disposal of dead sheep is crucial to prevent disease spreading.

The farmer was charged with six offences under the Animal By-Products (Wales) (Enforcement) (No.2) Regulations 2011.

He pleaded guilty and was fined £600 for the offences.

Mr Tapscott was also required to pay the authority’s costs of £1,570, a £20 victim surcharge, which meant that he had to pay £2,190 in total .

Cllr Barry Thomas, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Trading Standards, said: “This case sends out a strong message, not only to the farming community in Blaenau Gwent but also in Powys that we will take appropriate action if we find any breaches. The level of fines imposed by the court clearly demonstrates the seriousness of the case.

“Given the size and rural nature of Powys and the volume of work we currently undertake, we have developed one of the leading animal health and welfare services in Wales and are well positioned to carry out this important function on behalf of Blaenau Gwent.”

And Cllr Keith Hayden, Blaenau Gwent Council’s Executive Member for Waste Management and Environment, said: “We are pleased to be working in conjunction with Powys County Council to bring about court cases such as these.

“I hope that this sends out a strong message to farmers and livestock owners that we must have robust systems with animals’ by-products. We will not hesitate to work with organisations such Powys County Council to bring about court proceedings and secure a conviction.

"The majority of the Farming Community in Blaenau Gwent are very responsible and make animal welfare a top priority and work closely in conjunction with Blaenau Gwent Council.”