Farmer convicted for 'cruelly' mistreating sheep

A total of 11 sheep had to be put down due to severe neglect

A farmer has been sentenced for the "shocking and cruel" mistreatment of his sheep.

Dead animals were found decaying in and around buildings used by Daniel Hayward and about 30 of his flock - which included young lambs - were found with no access to water.

Eleven of his sheep were so badly neglected that they had to be immediately euthanised.

The 33-year-old, of Bratton in Wiltshire, admitted a string of animal welfare offences and was sentenced to 10 months in prison, suspended for 12 months, during a hearing at Swindon Crown Court earlier.

Hayward was charged with 21 offences relating to the care of sheep, livestock record keeping and the incorrect storage of carcasses.

He was banned from keeping all animals except cattle, cats and dogs for five years. He must also complete 250 hours of unpaid work and pay £3,600 in costs.

Severe neglect

Wiltshire Council said its animal welfare officers visited land in Great Cheverell in April 2023 and found dozens of Hayward's sheep with no access to drinking water.

Six of the sheep were in such a poor condition they had to be put down immediately and others required veterinary treatment.

While under investigation, the farmer continued to store dead sheep incorrectly, with "the stench of decay causing a nuisance locally", according to the council.

He also continued to commit serious animal welfare offences, and a further five sheep had to be put down.

Councillor Dominic Muns, cabinet member for environment, said: "This shocking case shows that we will use our powers to prosecute those who are found to be neglecting or acting cruelly towards livestock in our county."