A NORTH Cumbrian man has been charged over allegations that he has kept and trained cockerels for the purpose of illegal animal fights.

Robert Morrison, 37, of Low Harker, north of Carlisle, is facing a total of seven charges in a prosecution brought by the RSPCA.

One charge alleges that on October 7 last year, at Glasson, Morrison kept cockerels for the purpose of animal fights.

He is also accused of having cock-fight equipment - including ‘wound powder’, muscle ointments, suturing needles and syringes, and vitamin supplements. All are allegedly used in animal fights.

Morrison is charged with three counts of causing unnecessary suffering to the birds - by providing inadequate nutrition and inadequate veterinary treatment; as well as two charges of failing to meet the needs of the birds he was allegedly responsible for - by not providing “a suitable environment” and not supplying sufficient clean drinking water. Morrison denies all the charges.

Magistrates at Carlisle’s Rickergate court adjourned the case until July 29.