Saltdean man fined for sheep worrying

Brighton magistrates have fined a Saltdean man after his dogs worried sheep on Telscombe Tye and on a farm in Telscombe Cliffs.

Five of the sheep died as a result, the bench was told, including two lambs and three ewes.

Neil Rowe, 40, of Bannings Vale, Saltdean, was landed with an £830 bill when he appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court charged with allowing his dogs to worry livestock.

Rowe pleaded guilty to the offense which took place at Kirby Farm in Telscombe Cliffs in May and July and on Telscombe Tye in June.

The incident on the Tye resulted in the deaths of the five sheep.

The £830 that he was ordered to pay included a fine, compensation, a victim surcharge and costs.

PC David Tourell, of Sussex Police, said: “This is an offence that we take very seriously.

“The vast majority of dog owners are very responsible, keeping their animals on leads around livestock and ensuring that they are under control at all times.

“Unfortunately, it only takes a single irresponsible or careless dog owner to create havoc among livestock, often with devastating consequences for the animals and for owners.

“Offenders will be prosecuted and it is quite possible that, if found guilty, their dogs will be ordered to be destroyed.

“Nobody involved wanted that to happen in this case but I would urge people to really think about what could happen if they don’t keep their dogs under control.”