A RETIRED sheep farmer facing 21 charges, including permitting animals to suffer, has been granted legal aid to fight the case.

Thomas William Kellet, 68, of Milton Street, Padiham, is being prosecuted by Lancashire County Council Trading Standards.

His solicitor SephtonLee successfully had a previous judgement not to grant legal aid overturned, Preston magistrates were told.

Kellet faces 21 counts of failing to bury animal carcasses, failing to comply with livestock welfare provisions and permitting animals to suffer. The alleged offences took place in Thornley and Longridge.

The case was adjourned to November 3.

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