DEREK WILDISH AND ALISON HALL FROM BISHOP AUCKLAND BANNED AFTER HORSE HORROR IN MIDDLESTONE

Derek Wildish and Alison Hall, both residents of High Road, Middlestone near Bishop Auckland, faced serious legal consequences after a disturbing case of animal neglect came to light. The incident involved the discovery of two horses in a severely neglected state, with one horse tragically succumbing to its injuries.

Wildish, known for his work as a horse trader specializing in Welsh cobs, and Hall, also known as Alison Crowe, were found guilty of allowing their horses to suffer neglect and causing unnecessary pain and suffering. The case drew attention after concerns about the welfare of the animals prompted an investigation by the RSPCA.

In February 2019, local residents raised alarms about the condition of two horses kept between Bishop Auckland and Spennymoor, specifically on Low Road, Middlestone. An RSPCA inspector responded to these concerns and visited the site, where he encountered a distressing scene. One of the horses, a bay gelding named Brian, was found collapsed on the ground, barely able to move, and was partially concealed beneath a pile of branches. The inspector observed that the horse was in such a poor state that it could not stand. Despite efforts to save him, Brian was ultimately euthanized to prevent further suffering.

The second horse, a stallion named Janton, was also found at the scene. Although in poor condition, Janton was removed by police and subsequently made a good recovery after receiving appropriate care. The investigation revealed that both horses had been neglected for some time, with their owners failing to provide adequate shelter, nutrition, or medical attention.

During the court proceedings, Alison Hall pleaded guilty to the charges, while Derek Wildish was found guilty after a trial. The court heard that the neglect was severe enough to cause significant pain and suffering to the animals. The authorities emphasized that the owners' actions, or lack thereof, had directly contributed to the horses' suffering.

In sentencing, the court imposed a range of penalties. Wildish received an 18-week prison sentence, which was suspended for two years, along with a requirement to complete 250 hours of unpaid work and a financial penalty of £822. Hall was sentenced to 14 weeks in prison, also suspended for two years, and was ordered to undertake 25 days of rehabilitation. She was additionally required to pay £262 in costs. Both individuals were disqualified from owning or keeping horses for a period of seven years, a measure intended to prevent similar incidents in the future.

This case highlights the ongoing issues of animal welfare and the importance of vigilance within local communities to prevent such tragedies from recurring in Bishop Auckland and surrounding areas.