An alleged puppy farmer who bred dogs in diabolical conditions has been passed a suspended prison sentence and banned from keeping dogs. Peter Hughes from Flinthire and 64 dogs at his sheep farm but a licence for only 12. Of all the dogs found at the farm, 48 were puppies.

Hughes admitted causing unnecessary suffering, breeding without a licence, and breaching his pet shop licence. His three-month jail term was suspended for two years, and he was banned from owning a dog for 10 years.

He was also banned from applying for a licence to breed puppies for 10 years, and was ordered to pay £6,000 costs.

Hughes, who represented himself after his defence barrister withdrew from the case, was described in court as a part-time sheep farmer who sold puppies to supplement his income. He appealed for his own dog Meg to be returned but that was rejected.