TWO Pontardawe farmers have been fined after a Trading Standards investigation found they had failed to properly dispose of animal carcasses.

John Gethin James, 63, and Ieuan James, 72, of Pendarren Farm, Cilmaengwyn, appeared at Swansea magistrates' court after an investigation from Neath Port Talbot's trading standards and animal health unit.

The two men told officers that animal remains that were not consumed had been buried on site.

One of the sheds had been used as a lamb slaughter house and the animal remains were then buried by excavator at the farm, flouting Animal By-Product Regulations.

The regulations prevent the spread of animal disease via consumption of animal by products by wildlife or domestic animals and to protect the environment, including watercourses.

In interview, the defendants said they had stunned the animals and slaughtered them humanely, but admitted to knowingly burying animal by products on the farm.

They admitted to slaughtering 20 lambs over a two year period. The remains of eight lambs were buried onsite in April 2018, with a further 12 lambs in October 2019. The officers found evidence that the brothers had used proper animal by product collection services in the past, but had chosen not to on the occasion in question.

Both defendants pleaded guilty at Swansea Magistrates Court on July 28. Ieuan James was fined £184, John Gethin James was fined £290, they were each ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £32 and costs of £370.

Councillor Leanne Jones, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety & Public Protection said: “Food safety and animal welfare go hand in hand and the department takes its responsibility in protecting the food chain and the environment very seriously.

"An animal health disease outbreak could have a catastrophic effect on local farmers already under considerable strain.

"If a member of the public has any information on similar activities they can contact the department in confidence on 01639 686868.”