CHRISTOPHER JOHN RAW FROM GISBURN SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY AT LOCAL LIVESTOCK CENTRE

In a case that has shocked the local agricultural community, Christopher John Raw, a livestock centre foreman from Gisburn, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal at Gisburn Auction Mart. Born around 1978, Raw’s actions have brought to light serious concerns about animal welfare standards at the facility.

According to court proceedings, Raw, who held the position of yard foreman at the Gisburn Auction Mart, was responsible for the care and oversight of livestock during the auction process. In December 2016, an incident occurred involving a lamb that had become trapped in a gate while being penned on a Saturday. The lamb was severely injured, with a broken back, and was left untreated for an extended period.

It was reported that the lamb was moved to an isolated shed on the premises, where it was observed to be in a state of distress, described as “shivering, trembling and fitting” by witnesses. Despite the severity of its condition, no immediate veterinary intervention was arranged. Instead, the animal was left to suffer for approximately 29 hours, until the following day when another staff member convinced the manager to examine the animal.

It was only then that the lamb was euthanized to end its suffering. A post-mortem examination revealed that the lamb’s spinal cord had been completely fractured, confirming that the animal had been in pain for the entire duration of its ordeal. Prosecutor Nick McNamara, representing Lancashire Trading Standards, emphasized that this prolonged period of suffering was unacceptable and that immediate veterinary care or humane euthanasia should have been carried out.

During the court hearing, it was revealed that Raw had communicated with Thomas Robinson, the chairman of the directors, and another director about the incident. Raw reportedly told Robinson to move the injured lamb to a quiet place and monitor its condition. However, neither Robinson nor the other director conducted any examination of the animal, which raised further concerns about oversight and animal welfare practices at the centre.

Defense lawyer Paul Huxley argued that Raw had sought guidance from Robinson, who faced a similar charge but had pleaded not guilty. Huxley stated that Raw had followed instructions to the best of his ability, which included giving the animal food and water and waiting to see if it improved. He acknowledged that Raw should have used his initiative when he noticed the lamb was not moving, but insisted that his client’s intentions were well-meaning, albeit marred by a lack of competence.

In sentencing, the magistrates imposed a three-month curfew on Raw and ordered him to pay a total of £1,085 in costs and charges. The case has sparked ongoing discussions about animal welfare standards at livestock markets and the responsibilities of those in charge of animal care at such facilities.