A prestigious Cotswolds tourist attraction, renowned for its picturesque setting and historic significance, stands accused of systematic animal welfare abuses following a damning undercover investigation.
The Bibury Trout Farm, a fixture in the idyllic Gloucestershire village celebrated by William Morris as 'the most beautiful in England', faces allegations of severe mistreatment of its fish stocks. Secret footage obtained by animal rights group Animal Justice Project appears to show fish being kept in overcrowded, murky conditions and handled in ways that allegedly cause significant suffering.
Shocking Undercover Findings
The investigation reportedly captured evidence of fish with visible injuries, fungal infections, and deformities. The footage allegedly shows workers throwing fish significant distances, stepping on them, and keeping them in conditions described as 'filthy' and 'overcrowded'.
One particularly disturbing sequence appears to show a worker striking fish with a metal bar. The Animal Justice Project claims these practices violate both animal welfare legislation and the farm's own stated policies.
Historic Attraction Under Fire
Established in 1902, Bibury Trout Farm has long been a cornerstone of local tourism, attracting visitors to its scenic ponds and offering fishing experiences. These recent allegations present a stark contrast to its bucolic public image and have sparked outrage among animal welfare advocates and the public.
The farm's management has been contacted for comment regarding the specific allegations. The story has gained significant traction on social media, with many expressing shock and disappointment at the claims against the beloved landmark.
Regulatory Response and Next Steps
The Animal Justice Project has stated it will be submitting a formal complaint to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), urging a full investigation into the practices at the farm. The group is calling for immediate action to address the welfare concerns and for greater scrutiny of the UK's aquaculture industry as a whole.
This case raises broader questions about animal welfare standards in aquaculture and the oversight of tourist attractions that keep animals. The coming days will likely see increased pressure on both the farm and regulatory bodies to respond to these serious allegations.
