A LLANDYSUL landowner faces fines and costs of more than £3,500 after being found guilty of several charges relating to the obstruction of a bridleway.

David Davies, of Penffynnon Farm, Bangor Teifi, Llandysul, denied six charges when he appeared at Aberystwyth Justice Centre.

Three of the charges related to failing to comply with an earlier order to remove gates and a feeder from the bridleway, along with three more charges for obstructing the bridleway.

Magistrates found the case proved and fined the 59-year-old £400 for each offence of failing to obey the earlier order and £200 for each of the three subsequent charges.

Davies was also ordered to pay costs of £1,654.05 and a victim surcharge of £120.

A spokesman for Ceredigion County Council, which took the case to court, said: “Ceredigion County Council rangers work in partnership with local farmers and the agricultural community in general to ensure that public rights of way are maintained throughout the county.

“The vast majority of farmers and landowners work hard to ensure that the network remains open and available for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike.

“Unfortunately, there are instances where the standard of maintenance of gates and other such structures fall far short of what is acceptable and regrettably this leaves the council with little option other than to institute formal proceedings.

“The decision of the court confirmed that this was such an occasion.”