Farmer denies cow cruelty accusation

Wigan Council is prosecuting a farmer on animal cruelty charges after a suffering cow was found at a borough slaughterhouse.
By The Newsroom
Published 27th Jul 2018, 13:43 BST
Updated 27th Jul 2018, 13:47 BST
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The local authority has brought a private case against John Taylor, from Belmont, near Bolton, following the alleged incidents in January.

Mr Taylor firmly denies the charges against him and the matter is now going to trial.

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Wigan and Leigh Magistrates’ Court heard this week that the case relates to a claim unnecessary suffering was being inflicted on the animal by taking it to the Blackledge Abattoir on Stephens Way, Worsley Mesnes, for slaughter.

A second allegation accuses Mr Taylor of failing to seek veterinary attention for the cow on or before January 9, when he knew he should have done so to prevent its distress and pain.

Mr Taylor’s solicitors sent a letter to court explaining they would not be attending Tuesday’s initial hearing, but a formal not guilty statement would be sent in along with case management information.

It was made clear during the hearing that all the allegations will be vigorously contested by Mr Taylor and his legal representatives.

A trial will now take place on September 18.

Susan Fulford represented the local authority in court.