RSPCA found badger-baiting and animal fighting, court told

AN RSPCA surveillance operation uncovered badger baiting and animal fighting at a Snowdonia farm, a court heard on Monday.

Among those allegedly involved in the illegal activities had been a hunt terrier man and children, a district judge was told at Llandudno, north Wales.

Jordan Houlston, 24, of Alexandra Road, Llandudno, the alleged terrier man, was accused of kicking a live badger. He denied wilfully injuring a badger at Cwm Bowydd Farm, Blaenau Ffestiniog, ill-treating a badger, taking part in an animal fight and being present at one on February 5 last year.

He also denied causing unnecessary suffering to four dogs by causing them to fight. Ten offences were listed against him in all.

Marc Wyn Morris, 26, of Jones Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog, pleaded guilty to wilfully injuring a badger, being present at an animal fight and causing unnecessary suffering to a badger by causing it to fight with a dog.

A boy of 17 admitted being present at an animal fight. Their sentencing was adjourned.

David Thomas, 51, of Cwm Bowydd Farm, denied animal welfare allegations including causing unnecessary suffering to two foxes. Evan Bleddyn Thomas, 52, a farmer, of Cwm Bowydd, was said to have played no active part in the activities. But solicitor Tudur Owen, prosecuting, said: “He should have done something about it.”

He denied keeping premises for use for an animal fight.

A boy of 13 also denied charges connected to the alleged illegal activities.

The trial continues.