Court upholds gamekeeper penalty

Cripps destroyed the goshawk's eggs and nest

A Derbyshire gamekeeper found guilty of persecuting rare birds in the Peak District has lost his appeal against a three month suspended prison sentence.

John Cripps, 60, of Ronksley, was convicted in February of destroying the eggs of the rare Goshawk.

After a three-day hearing, Derby Crown Court upheld the original sentence - which is suspended for two years.

The RSPB said the decision sent a strong message to those engaged in this sort of activity.

Warning shot

Cripps told a wildlife officer too many of the birds were attacking grouse.

Roy Taylor, regional conservation manager for the RSPB, said it was important the courts took such crimes seriously.

He said: "We think it is just the tip of the iceberg. A lot of birds of prey have disappeared from their former haunts in the Peak District.

"We are hoping this will send a warning shot to people who are out there trying to persecute birds of prey.

"It says 'If you do persecute birds of prey, you will be caught'."