AN ELLAND farmer has been fined for failing to comply with laws aimed at preventing the spread of TB and Foot and Mouth disease.

Richard Naylor, of The Ridings, Hullen Edge Hall, Hullen Edge, pleaded guilty to two offences of failing to comply with legislation introduced to stop the spread of animal diseases.

The 54-year-old admitted he did not undertake a routine test for Bovine Tuberculosis (TB) – something which should have been done in 2004.

He appeared before Halifax Magistrates yesterday and was given a Conditional Discharge with a £600 fine for the offences. Naylor also pleaded guilty to one offence relating to animal welfare.

The charges came after an investigation by Calderdale Council’s Housing and Environment Services and the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) Animal Health.

They found that Naylor had failed to undertake a routine test for TB and could not identify his cattle in accordance with the requirements of the Cattle Identification Regulations. The legislation was introduced to increase traceability of cattle in the aftermath of BSE, commonly known as mad cow disease.

Mark Thompson, responsible for animal health and welfare at Calderdale Council, said: “Our Animal Health and Welfare Officer works hard with local farmers to ensure this kind of neglect is a rare occurrence within our authority.

“During the course of our investigation it became clear that Mr Naylor had already received advice from different authorities about the importance of testing his cattle for Bovine Tuberculosis and the importance of adequate levels of animal welfare.

“Despite this he continued to disregard the advice, leaving the service no alternative but to prosecute.”

He said the council would not hesitate to pursue those who refuse to follow the rules again, adding: “This case demonstrates that we take our responsibility for disease control seriously, and demonstrates our close partnership working with the state Animal Health Service and Defra.”