Man arrested after animal deaths

Animal welfare workers cleared out the stables

A man has been arrested over the discovery of almost 40 dead animals at stables in County Durham.

The remains of at least 19 horses, 11 chickens, three dogs and a rabbit were found at the run-down property in Trimdon Colliery last week.

A definite figure for the number of dead animals was difficult because of their decomposition.

The RSPCA, which is leading the investigation, said a suspect was arrested on Tuesday afternoon.

A rottweiler and two border collies were believed to have survived, either by eating the carcasses, or by gnawing into food sacks.

'Terrible smell'

An RSPCA spokeswoman said: "I can confirm a man was arrested and was helping with inquiries.

"A file is being prepared and sent to our prosecutions department for consideration."

Durham Police said the force was leaving the investigation to the RSPCA, which had made an in-depth examination of the Bank Top stables.

Animal charity Inspector Mark Gent, who found the harrowing scene, said: "When I got there, I smelt a terrible smell and knew there was something wrong.

"I phoned the local police who attended and we broke in and found quite a shocking sight.

"I have smelt it before, sadly, but you know that smell and I knew instinctively there was something wrong.

"I have never seen anything on this scale before."

The RSPCA were alerted on 29 May, after a member of the public became concerned for the welfare of the animals.