A farmer from the Nantlle Valley who caused unnecessary suffering to sheep and dogs has been banned from keeping animals for ten years.

Robert Hughes pleaded guity following an animal welfare investigation by Trading Standards officers,centred on the Blaen y Garth farm near Nantlle, Penygroes.

He'll only be allowed to keep one dog following sentencing at Caernarfon Crown Court on Friday.

Prosecutors said Hughes had failed to properly care for a flock of several hundred sheep and several dogs at his farm and failed to take appropriate steps to protect them from pain and suffering.

Complaints from the members of the public surrounding the treatment and condition of his animals led to several visits from Cyngor Gwynedd officers in September last year.

The court heard that such was the concern about their welfare, animal health inspectors were brought in, supported by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)

Sheep at Blaen-y-Garth were described as suffering from conditions such as foot-rot, fly-strike and internal and external parasites - and several were euthanised on welfare grounds on the advice of veterinary officers.

They argued that taking into account the number of livestock who died at Blaen-y-Garth, their body condition and the evidence of inadequate care, the sheep and dogs had suffered.

Hughes was advised by Cyngor Gwynedd and APHA officials, but the court heard his co-operation during the investigation was minimal and his lack of engagement led directly to the prolonged and worsening suffering of the animals.

Eventually, the council took the animals away from Blaen-y-Garth and into their possession and had to arrange emergency treatment at public expense.

The court heard numerous decomposing sheep carcases were also found uncollected and accessible to other animals and wildlife on the farm.

Hughes' defence noted his guilty plea, remorse for what happened and the impact of losing his parents - but the judge said he had failed to engage with the relevant authorities.

As well as a ten year ban from keeping animals Hughes was also fined £1,000 and ordered to pay a further £980 in costs.

Following sentencing, Cllr Craig ab Iago, cabinet member for the environment at Cyngor Gwynedd, said: "Anyone keeping livestock has a clear responsibility to ensure that their animals are kept in adequate conditions and receive the necessary care."

"The vast majority of people who keep agricultural animals take their responsibility seriously and look after their animals."

"However, where there is evidence of unnecessary suffering, our officers have a responsibility to investigate and take formal enforcement steps if necessary."

Claire Thomas, head of APHA's field delivery in Wales, added: "This case reflects the effectiveness of our enforcement efforts and the strong cooperation between APHA and local authorities."

"We welcome the outcome which sends a clear message that such offences will not be tolerated. All livestock operations, no matter their size, are legally obliged to uphold high standards of animal welfare."