Todmorden News

Todmorden Farmer Fined For Disease Legislation Offences

A farmer from Todmorden appeared before Halifax Magistrates today and was fined £3,000 + costs for failure to comply with legislation introduced to stop the spread of animal diseases. Mr Andrew John Barker of Bacup Road, Todmorden pleaded guilty to 31 offences relating to breaches of legislation introduced to prevent the spread of Bovine Tuberculosis (TB) and Foot and Mouth Disease. Mr Baker also pleaded guilty to 2 offences relating to the failure to dispose of carcases of sheep on land near Todmorden.

Following an investigation by officers from Calderdale Council Environmental Health Service it was found that Mr Barker had left carcases on land near Todmorden.

In addition, further investigations found that Mr Barker had moved cattle both on to and off his farm when cattle on his farm were under movement restrictions because of his failure to test his cattle for Bovine TB. Mr Barker had moved both cattle and sheep in breach of the 6-day standstill period introduced to slow the spread of animal diseases.

During the course of our investigation it became clear that Mr Barker had already received advice from different authorities about the importance of keeping accurate farm and transport records, and the prompt appropriate disposal of fallen stock.

Councillor Graham Reason, Portfolio Holder for Health and Social Care:

“Animal Health legislation is incredibly important in helping to prevent or slow the spread of diseases like foot and mouth.

“This case demonstrates how seriously we take our responsibility for disease control, and demonstrates our close partnership working with the state Animal Health Service and Defra. We will not hesitate to pursue those who refuse to follow the rules.”