[T]WO men who deny an alleged attempt to kill a badger are to go on trial.
Wayne Lawson and Richard Todd, both aged 39, face a number of allegations as part of a prosecution brought by the RSPCA.
Lawson and Todd stand jointly accused of an alleged wilful attempt to kill a badger; allegedly interfering with badger setts; and allegedly causing/attempting to cause an animal fight to take place.
These arise out of alleged incidents on or about January 29 last year.
In addition, Lawson faces two further allegations: causing unnecessary suffering to protected animals – two dogs – by “failing to provide professional veterinary care in respect of injuries” between November 28 and December 5 last year.
Lawson, of Sheehan Gardens, Carlisle, and Todd, of Mill Road, Glasson, both attended a case management hearing at Carlisle Magistrates’ Court earlier today (WED).
Lawyer Clive Rees, representing both men, told a court legal advisor they were entering “not guilty pleas to everything”.
A trial, with a three-day time estimate, is due to take place at the magistrates’ court on a date to be fixed.