A protest has taken place at a North Yorkshire farm at the centre of an animal cruelty investigation after undercover footage showed cows being beaten and kicked by workers.
Several dozen animal rights campaigners gathered outside Lowfields Farm, near Northallerton, on Saturday.
The protest was organised by the animal welfare group Animal Justice Project.
It took place after undercover footage obtained by the welfare group showed cows being kicked, punched and struck with pipes.
Calves were also shown being slapped after being separated from their mothers, while dead calves were left in view of other cows.
Claire Palmer, director of Animal Justice Project, said: “Around fifty campaigners are here today, deeply concerned not just about the suffering of cows and calves at Lowfields Farm, but about the dairy industry as a whole.
“We’re standing up for animal rights, the planet, and public health. Leaflets have been distributed in Brompton to help local residents understand that dairy is far from harmless.
“The British public is being systematically misled about where their food comes from—it’s not their fault, but it’s time they saw the reality behind the adverts.”
The protest has received high-profile backing from former model Heather Mills, who described the scenes as “truly heartbreaking.”
She added: “It’s devastating to know this suffering happens every day, hidden behind the dairy industry’s polished image.
“We have the power to choose kindness, and I stand with Animal Justice Project today in calling for a future where no animal has to suffer for their milk.”
The footage released last month prompted Arla to suspend its relationship with the farm.
The company said the farmer was no longer suspended but the individuals involved in the incidents no longer worked at the farm.
A spokesperson added: “The farmer has reported these individuals to the relevant authorities including the police for animal abuse.
“Since the footage came to light, independent auditors and Red Tractor performed assessments at the farm. Recruitment, training, and monitoring practices are being strengthened to ensure high standards.”
Be the first to comment