2nd August 2024
A Lancaster man has been convicted of an offence under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 following an investigation by Lancaster, Morecambe, and Wyre’s Rural Task Force.
Stephen Metcalfe (65) pleaded guilty at Lancaster Magistrates Court to interfering with badger setts. Metcalfe was fined £750 and ordered to pay £85 costs and £300 victim surcharge.
Badger Persecution is one of the UK National Wildlife crime priorities and this case highlights the benefits of a multi-agency approach to tackle the issue. If anyone has any information about wildlife crime we would urge them to contact Crimestoppers on 0800555111 or by visiting their website
Lancashire Badger Group welcomed the guilty verdict against Metcalfe, and would like to thank Lancashire Police for supporting this case to court. Ian Scott – Trustee for Lancashire Badger Group commented, “Badgers are a protected species, and to harm the badger or its home is against the law”. We all need to work in harmony with nature, for the benefit of people and planet.”
Lancashire Badger Group is always willing to work with landowners, see website for further information https://orlo.uk/fXEcw or Tel 08448 707 908.