Issued By Cumbria County Council

FARMER FOUND GUILTY OF BREAKING 20 DAY STANDSTILL

Kendal Magistrates today found Raymond Patrick Crawford of High Thorn, Selside, Kendal, Guilty of breaking the 20 day standstill rule.  Mr Crawford had pleaded Not Guilty to the charges brought by Cumbria Trading Standards Department.  Crawford was fined £500 and ordered to pay £300 costs.

The court heard that the defendant took a Limousin heifer to Kendal Mart on 28 February 2002.  Because the beast was not accompanied by a cattle passport, Crawford had to return the animal home, thus triggering the 20 day standstill.  Just 4 days later the same beast reappeared at Kirkby Stephen Mart.

This is the first prosecution in the county for a breach of the 20 day standstill rule.

Notes to Editors

1.        The charge was brought contrary to Article 3(1) of The Disease Control (Interim Measures)(England) Order 2002.  The aim of this post foot and mouth legislation is to contain the spread of any disease, limit certain animal movement and ensure stock traceability,

2          For more information on this press release, contact Patrick Thomas on 01539 773591 or Phil Ashcroft on 01539 773586.