A traveller has been banned from keeping animals for ten years after his cockerels were found with a "severe" lice infestation.

Paul Stewart, 42, from Edinburgh, pleaded guilty to two charges of causing an animal unnecessary suffering by failing to provide veterinary treatment at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on February 2.

The Scottish SPCA searched his property after being tipped off about the cruelty. They found two cockerels, both suffering from severe lice infestations which had led to them losing their feathers.

The large cockerel had its natural heel spurs removed and the smaller bird had its natural comb removed.

Stewart was banned from keeping animals for ten years, given 12 months probation and 100 hours community service.

Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said, "We welcome this conviction which should send a strong message to anyone who thinks it's acceptable to cause an animal unnecessary suffering.

"The public are our eyes and ears when it comes to exposing all types of animal cruelty and we would encourage anyone with concerns for the welfare of animals to call our helpline."