Pig farmer warned he could face jail

3:33pm Thursday 15th May 2008

A pig farmer has been warned by a judge he could be jailed and banned from owning animals after he admitted three charges of failing to dispose of carcasses without undue delay.

Mark Wilkinson, 44, of Lower Springhead Farm, Carter Lane, Queensbury, pleaded guilty to the offences at a hearing before Bradford Crown Court today but it is understood that he will also admit dozens of further allegations when he is sentenced next month.

Prosecutor Giles Bridge told Judge Roger Scott that the course of conduct was effectively animal cruelty and the court would be asked to consider a disqualification from owning or having custody of pigs at the next hearing.

Wilkinson admitted a further charge today of failing to keep records for the administration of veterinary medicinal products relating to two male pigs, but an allegation of failing to dispose of piglet carcasses was ordered to lie on the file.

Judge Scott was told that Wilkinson had no previous convictions and his barrister Nigel Hamilton asked for his sentence to be adjourned so a report could be prepared on him by the probation service.

The offences relating to the disposal of carcasses could carry a maximum jail term of two years.

Judge Scott told Wilkinson that all options would be available to the judge who deals with his case on Friday, June 27.

The prosecution was brought by Bradford Council following an investigation by its environmental health officers.

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