Investigation launched after 150 chicken carcasses dumped at Painswick Beacon (From Stroud News and Journal)

Investigation launched after 150 chicken carcasses dumped at Painswick Beacon

3:20pm Thursday 7th February 2013 in News By Kate Wilson, Reporter

AN investigation has been launched after 150 chicken carcasses were dumped at popular beauty spot Painswick Beacon.

The carcasses, which appear to have been professionally prepared, are thought to have been dumped on the morning of Wednesday, January 30 before 10am.

They were found by a member of the public and have since been removed by Stroud District Council’s environmental health team.

Gloucestershire County Council is responsible for enforcing laws related to the disposal of animal by-products in order to prevent the spread of disease.

Eddie Coventry, head of GCC trading standards, said: “It is likely that these carcasses are food waste from a local business which has dumped them to avoid having to pay the cost of proper disposal as is required by law.

“If anyone has any information that could help us identify the people responsible I would urge them to come forward.”

Cllr Will Windsor-Clive, cabinet member for communities, said: “This is one of the most beautiful spots in the Gloucestershire countryside and should be kept that way for the enjoyment of local people.

“It is the responsibility of all local businesses to ensure they dispose of waste through the correct channels. Anyone who doesn’t needs to be brought to the attention of trading standards.”

Members of the public with information can contact the service through the Citizen’s Advice Consumer Service on 08454 040506 or report information anonymously through the website www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/glos/report.htm