A CEREDIGION farmer who admitted a string of offences must pay fines and costs totalling nearly £3,000.

Ceirian Jones, of Rhiwonnen Farm, Abermeurig, appeared before magistrates at Aberystwyth Justice Centre charged with obstructing animal health officers, an animal welfare offence and animal by-products related offences.

The 37-year-old pleaded guilty to three charges of failing to dispose of a total of 31 sheep carcasses found in varying states of decay, located in different locations on the farm property between February 12-23, 2018.

Jones also admitted obstructing animal health officers in the execution of their duties on February 12, 2018, when carcasses were removed before they could be examined.

A further charge under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 for failing to ensure the needs of an animal were met was also admitted.

Magistrates fined Mr Jones £150 for each of the five offences admitted and ordered him to pay the full legal costs of Ceredigion County Council totalling £2,051.81 and a £30 victim surcharge.

Cllr Gareth Lloyd, Ceredigion County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for finance and public protection services said he was grateful to the council’s officers and solicitors in bringing this case to court.

He said: “Gathering and presenting the evidence to enable a successful prosecution is never an easy task and it is to their credit that the law has been applied and upheld.

“I would also wish to thank members of the public and the wider farming community who report such incidents, as well as staff from partner organisations that assist our staff when required.

“I am deeply disappointed that the high animal welfare standards that are practiced by the vast majority of Ceredigion farmers are not always followed by a very small number of individuals.”