RYAN LOWE AND BRIAN SANDERSON CAUSE OUTRAGE IN CARLISLE AND SHAP WITH ILLEGAL FOX AND BADGER HUNTING

In a disturbing case that has shocked local communities, Ryan Lowe, aged approximately 41, residing at 5 Baird Road, Carlisle CA1 3AE, and Brian Sanderson, aged around 51, of 1 West Lane, Shap, Penrith CA10 3LT, were caught engaging in illegal hunting activities involving foxes and badgers. The incident unfolded when authorities uncovered their crossing into Scottish territory, specifically near Westerkirk, close to Langholm, during what was described as a hunting expedition.

According to court records, Lowe and Sanderson were found in possession of four lurcher-type dogs and a terrier, both equipped with locator collars, which are often used to track the animals during hunts. The men faced charges related to possessing equipment that is prohibited under the Protection of Badgers Act, including spades, walkie-talkies, and various electronic devices. Despite their plea of not guilty, claiming the items were for legitimate purposes, the court found them guilty after a rigorous three-day trial.

During the proceedings, the court clarified that Lowe and Sanderson had not approached a badger sett with their dogs, nor had they disturbed any entrances or caused a dog to enter a sett, which are common concerns in such cases. Nonetheless, their activities involving the possession of hunting gear and the crossing into protected areas were deemed illegal.

Sentencing for Ryan Lowe resulted in a community payback order requiring him to complete 180 hours of unpaid work. Brian Sanderson was ordered to pay a fine of £1,000. Importantly, neither man received a ban from keeping dogs, which could have been a potential penalty given the nature of their activities.

This case has garnered attention from local and national wildlife protection agencies, highlighting ongoing issues related to illegal hunting and the need for stricter enforcement of wildlife protection laws. The incident underscores the persistent threat posed by illegal hunting activities in rural areas like Carlisle and Shap, where such practices continue to threaten local wildlife populations.