An animal-health chief has welcomed a fine imposed on a Cumbria man who obstructed a wildlife inspector.

The official was denied access to Brian Miller’s Aspatria address in relation to birds kept at the property at Castlesteads, Hayton. The 51-year-old was ordered to pay a total of £365 in a fine and costs by Carlisle Magistrates on Monday.

Miller refused entry to a wildlife inspector from the Government’s official agency Animal Health who had authority to inspect the property in relation to species listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species in October last year.

Inspectors returned the following February with officers from Cumbria Constabulary and staff from the National Wildlife Crime Unit. The premises were searched under warrant.

PC John Shaw, wildlife officer for Cumbria Constabulary, said: “To obstruct a wildlife inspector is an offence under the Control of Trade in Endangered Species (Enforcement) regulation 1997 and we will always work with our partners to help ensure the laws made to safeguard our wildlife are adhered to.

“This case follows on from a number of partnership wildlife crime operations we have carried out throughout the county during the past 12 months into the trade of endangered species. Cumbria Police wildlife crime officers will continue to work with other agencies on intelligence led operations into all aspects of wildlife related crime.”

Nevin Hunter, head of compliance at Animal Health said: “It is vital that wildlife inspectors are able to undertake their role conducting inspections to ensure endangered species legislation is complied with.

“On this occasion the inspector was obstructed for no real reason and it was necessary for us to work with local police to ensure the inspection was completed. Visits are vital as we seek to support those legally trading and in legal possession of certain birds of prey.

“Those tempted to obstruct inspectors now know that robust action will be taken to ensure the law is complied with. I am grateful for the support of Cumbria Police and the National Wildlife Crime Unit in seeing this case through.”