A sheep farmer in Penicuik who was caught on video abusing sheep after being filmed by an undercover PETA animal welfare officer who was posing as a farmer.
The officer had obtained the job at Herbertshaw Farm in Penicuik, Midlothian to ensure that welfare standards were met - the footage was then handed to the Scottish SPCA.
William Brown, 59, of Penicuik admitted to violently punching two male sheep causing unnecessary suffering under Section 19 (1) of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.
Following a Scottish SPCA investigation, Brown has been handed a £550 fine.
Scottish SPCA chief inspector John Chisholm said, “We were alerted to the incident by PETA who passed on the video of Brown striking the animals .
“We’re pleased Brown has admitted the offence .
“This is a serious case of animal cruelty by an experienced farmer - he will be fully aware that sheep experience fear and can perceive humans as a threat.
“Violently lashing out at the sheep will spread fear amongst the rest of the flock.
“We would expect anyone involved in the rearing of livestock for commercial purposes to have the highest standards of welfare and treatment.
“We are disappointed that Brown wasn’t banned from owning or working with animals but we hope this will serve as a warning that this behaviour is unacceptable and we will fully investigate any reports of cruelty towards livestock.
“We would welcome the opportunity to discuss welfare practice with the wider industry.”
