Cruel sheep farmer banned

Cruel sheep farmer banned

Brian Potter: No vet had visited the farm for two years

A sheep farmer convicted of cruelty to his flock has been disqualified from keeping animals for five years.

When the RSPCA visited Brian Potter's ramshackle farm in Devon, they found the sheep in a "piteous" condition, Exeter magistrates were told.

Some 61 animals were suffering from severe lameness, or were close to death.

The unburied carcasses of 39 sheep were also found.

He was convicted at an earlier hearing of three charges of causing unnecessary suffering to animals; one of causing distress to the flock, and another of failing to provide a wholesome diet.

RSPCA inspector Tony Woodley said: "Potter's sheep were left to suffer in a piteous condition that was heartbreaking to behold."

Decrepit farmhouse

The earlier hearing was also told that a vet had not visited Potter's farm for two years.

Anne Davies, chairman of the magistrates, said in sentencing Potter that their options were limited because of Potter's dire financial situation.

Potter's solicitor, James Calderbank, said Potter lived well below subsistence level in a decrepit farmhouse with no electricity, and did not have "two brass farthings to rub together".

Potter maintained he had checked his stock.

He said after the hearing: "It is an insult to the intelligence.

"Everyone thinks people who live in the country are gaga."