A BATTLE between a council and a former kitchen fitter over a Rossendale petting zoo is set to go to trial.

Council environmental health bosses allege Terence Anthony Bork, 50, who runs Animal Quackers in Bacup, exposed visitors to a potential E-Coli risk.

Bork, of Huttock Top Farm, in Newchurch Old Road, Bacup, has admitted running an riding establishment at the venture, without a proper licence.

But he was denied a series of health and safety offences concerning Animal Quackers, between September 2009 and August 2011.

He has pleaded not guilty to carry out risk assessments and provide adequate controls to prevent the risk of exposure to E-Coli.

Bork has also denied contravening an enforcement notice relating to the provision of hot running water at the site.

And he will also stand trial over a charge of running a pet shop without an appropriate licence.

Lawyers representing Rossendale Council withdrew an offence of exhibiting a performing animal without a licence during a hearing at Reedley Magistrates Court.

Bork, who was not represented in court, told magistrates he had instructed Sue Robinson, of Walkers Solicitors, in the case.

He added: "I believe I have been doing my utmost to put customer's safety first. Most of the things I have been accused of have now been sorted out."

Magistrates adjourned the case for a pre-trial hearing, which is due to take place at the Reedley court on April 19.