Rural crime

With around two-thirds of UK farmers and landowners being subject to fly-tipping, is it time for offenders to receive more severe punishment?

The Environment Agency fined a Norfolk farmer £4,300 after he took more water than he was legally licensed to take following a leak at his farm

Environment Agency warns businesses to comply with regulations or face similar action

The four illegally released lynx wildcats were captured by trained animal officers on Friday (January 10)

HSE said safety measures such as barriers, netting or access equipment 'were not in place' at the farm

Countless incidents last year, highlighted in coverage by Farmers Guardian, included crimes which led to the death of livestock and damage to businesses which could have been avoided had the owner placed their dog, or dogs, on a lead

Police were called to the premises on Rouncil Lane just after 6pm on December 20

Ms Brandreth writes about The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Amendment Bill which could help provide better protections for farmers and their livestock

"The risk to the public, road users and those dealing with the situation was considered too high for any other course of action to be considered"

"Though Mr Pearson was offered the opportunity to avoid a criminal conviction, he chose to ignore that, leading to this hearing"