RAYMOND WEEDALL'S SHOCKING CRIMES IN WINSFORD: COCKFIGHTING AND ANIMAL ABUSE REVEALED

Raymond Glyn Weedall, born on September 3, 1950, and residing at 97 Crook Lane in Winsford CW7 3DN, was found guilty in 2012 of serious charges related to animal cruelty and illegal cockfighting activities. The conviction followed a detailed investigation involving both the RSPCA and local police authorities, which culminated in a raid on Weedall’s property early in the morning on June 8, 2011.

During this operation, law enforcement officials seized over £15,000 in cash, which Weedall claimed was earned through legitimate means, asserting that his interest was solely in exhibiting cockerels rather than engaging in illegal fights. However, the evidence collected painted a different picture. Dozens of cockerels were discovered at his residence, many of which had their wattles cut off—a brutal practice commonly associated with cockfighting to prevent bleeding and enhance fighting ability. Additionally, investigators uncovered DVDs depicting cockfights and metal spurs, which are used to inflict more damage during fights.

Weedall was charged and subsequently convicted of ten offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. These included keeping seven cockerels for fighting purposes, possessing sets of metal spurs intended for use in fights, and performing banned procedures such as mutilating the birds by removing their wattles. The authorities also found that he failed to properly care for three polecat ferrets, neglecting their welfare.

Further charges related to his activities at a different location, a smallholding on Dalesford Lane in Northwich. There, Weedall was found to have failed in his duty of care towards 59 cockerels, neglecting their basic needs and providing inadequate perching for 18 of them. He was also found guilty of removing wattles from 37 cockerels and keeping 37 birds specifically for fighting purposes at this site.

In addition to animal cruelty charges, Weedall pleaded guilty under the Wildlife and Countryside Act to possessing a wild goldfinch. He was acquitted of allegations related to failing to meet the needs of a black lurcher-type dog.

Commenting on the case, an RSPCA spokesperson emphasized the brutality of cockfighting, describing it as an outdated and barbaric activity. The spokesperson highlighted the cruelty involved, noting that birds can suffer for up to an hour before dying in fights, and expressed hope that this case would serve as a warning to others involved in such illegal activities.

As a result of his convictions, Weedall received a 20-week custodial sentence, which was suspended for two years. He was also ordered to complete 150 hours of community service, adhere to a six-month curfew, and pay a total fine of £50,000. Furthermore, he was permanently banned from owning or caring for animals.

In a related disciplinary action, Weedall was struck off the register of farriers by the Farriers Registration Council in January 2013, following his conviction. The council found him guilty of serious professional misconduct, and his name was removed from the register, making it illegal for him to carry out farriery work or present himself as a qualified farrier. This legal restriction remains in effect, and any attempt to do so would constitute a criminal offence.

This case, reported initially by the Winsford Guardian, underscores the ongoing efforts of authorities to combat animal cruelty and illegal cockfighting in the region, sending a clear message that such activities will be met with severe legal consequences.