Reports of badger baiting over the county border led police to a scarred terrier. 

Police officers went to a property in North Heath, Chieveley - just south of Oxfordshire - on March 26 last year to investigate a report of badger-baiting, a banned sport that sees the striped animal attacked by dogs.

When they were at the property, a member of the public handed over a small terrier. It had 'fresh and historic' injuries, Thames Valley Police said, and photographs taken at the time showed blood on the dog's face. 

After the dog was taken to the nearest vets by the police officers, 20-year-old John Greedy visited the surgery and confirmed he was the owner of the animal. He was arrested and, later, charged with an animal cruelty offence.

Greedy, of Peterstone Wentlooge, Cardiff, was found guilty at Reading Magistrates' Court of failing to ensure an animal's welfare. On Tuesday (February 14), he was fined £360 and ordered to pay £775 in costs. A court order requires him to give up ownership rights to the terrier, which has been rehomed.

PC Sean Morris, of the Hungerford and Downlands neighbourhood team, said: “A thorough investigation has led to John Greedy’s conviction as well as a fine and costs totalling more than £1,000 and the safe rehoming of a beautiful terrier looking for a fresh start.

“The Hungerford and Downlands policing team is determined to prevent, deter and tackle rural crime throughout West Berkshire.”