Cows and sheep have been seized from an allotment by Stoke-on-Trent City Council because of concerns about their welfare.

Firefighters were called to rescue a cow that had fallen into a stream, while on an earlier occasion an animal carcass was allowed to decompose on a bank, magistrates have been told.

Despite visits to the site by council and veterinary staff and orders to take action to address issues, concerns remained that animals could access the stream. And Stephen Kent, of Greyswood Road, Trent Vale, was warned that the animals would be removed.

On Monday (March 4), Stoke-on-Trent City Council was granted permission at North Staffordshire Justice Centre to sell the animals, which were seized from Swan Lane Allotments at Leawood Road, Trent Vale.

Kirsty Messenger, representing Stoke-on-Trent City Council, told magistrates: "In 2021 Mr Kent failed to deal with an animal by-product. A cow carcass was allowed to decompose on the stream bank.

The animals were seized from allotments off Leawood Road, Trent Vale (Google).

"On September 14 the fire service attended the scene and rescued a cow that had fallen into the water. A vet was present at the request of the fire service and provided advice on ongoing care of the animal which was not followed – the animal subsequently died.

"The service has provided general advice to erect a fence next to the water. On September 19 a joint site inspection was carried out by Trading Standards and a vet.

"On September 22 Mr Kent arrived on site and stated he had to leave immediately to care for his unwell wife. On September 26 an improvement notice was issued, requiring actions to be carried out to address serious concerns of animal welfare.

"On October 18 a site visit identified several actions had not been taken, including removal of hazards. He was advised it was an offence to not take action and the council was looking to remove the animals."

Further site visits were carried out in November, where fencing was found in place, but part had fallen down. Magistrates heard that there were also concerns the fencing could be breached by cattle.

On January 5 a letter was sent to Kent warning the cattle would be removed. Six cows and seven sheep were taken under the Animal Welfare Act, on the grounds they could suffer if if circumstances did not change.

Kent did not attend the hearing on Monday. Magistrates heard that seizure of the animals had cost the council £1,488, while husbandry had cost £1,295.59.

Miss Messenger said there were ongoing costs in caring for the livestock. She added: "There is a cost to take them to a local market, but TB testing is due to be carried out tomorrow so hopefully it won't be a long period of time."

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