James Gray's 'equine cruelty' farm for sale

Apr 29 2010 By Hannah Williams, Buckinghamshire Examiner

Spindle Farm Horse Trial

A FARM where rotting carcasses and piles of the bones of horses, ponies and donkeys were uncovered by RSPCA and police officers has been put up for sale.

Spindle Farm, in Chalk Lane, Hyde Heath, belongs to former horse trader James Gray, 46.

More than 30 equines were discovered dead on the premises in January 2008 in one of the RSPCA's biggest operations, which made national headlines. More than 100 animals were seized from the property by police.

Gray was convicted of 11 charges under the Animal Welfare Act in May last year, but has appealed against conviction and will find out next Thursday whether he has been successful.

The property, being sold through PJSA Ltd, has been split into four lots: The house and garden; a paddock; a small barn and land; and a farmyard with land. No prices have been given, with offers invited.

Gray's wife Julie Gray, 42, and daughters, Cordelia, 21, of Spindle Farm, and Jodie, 27, of Park Road, Ashford, Middlesex, are also appealing against their convictions on two charges of failing to meet the needs of

equines, under the same act.

A 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, and who was convicted of the same charges as Gray, is also appealing.

Follow us on Facebook