A FARMER and his son have denied mistreating sheep destined for slaughter by transporting animals suffering with severe injury and infection.

Richard Lennox, 66, and son Alex, 31, are accused of loading and transporting sheep which were suffering with broken bones and severe foot rot.

The pair, of Wick Farm, in Layer de la Haye, denied several charges relating to the mistreatment of farm animals.

The sheep in question were allegedly loaded and transported to Romford Halal in Upminster.

Richard Lennox also denies one count of intentionally obstructing an animal by-products enforcement officer.

However, he admitted two charges of failing to comply with an animal by-product requirement when he appeared in Colchester Magistrates’ Court.

He acknowledged he breached regulations by possessing the bones and carcass of animals not slaughtered for human consumption.

He and his son denied one count of loading and transporting a sheep with a severe fracture to its hind leg and two counts of transporting sheep with severe foot rot and sloughing of hoof.

Foot rot leads to intense pain for the animal and can be severe if not treated, leading to lameness.

It is considered contagious, responsible for decreased wool production and can make it more likely for the animal to contract more infectious diseases.

Two charges of failing to comply with animal by-product requirements levelled against Alex Lennox were dropped by prosecutors.

The charges are being brought by Essex County Council Trading Standards.

A trial, heard over two days, will now be held at Colchester Magistrates’ Court.

Addressing the two farmers, Lucy Lavender, chairman of the bench, said: “I formally adjourn proceedings until a trial, which will take place on June 7 and 14.”