FOOD safety officers are warning consumers not to let illegally slaughtered meat spoil their Christmas or Eid celebrations.

Environmental health officers from Blackburn with Darwen Council say local farmers are being approached by people from the borough asking to buy and slaughter sheep on their premises.

"This is completely illegal, raises animal welfare concerns and has serious health implications too.

"Any meat produced in this way would not be certified fit for human consumption, which could cause health problems, and it does not meet any religious requirements," said Chris Allen, head of environmental health and trading standards.

"Animals must only be slaughtered on licensed premises which have been checked as clean and fit for purpose.

"The animals must be checked by a vet beforehand and the meat must be inspected afterwards to certify that it is fit to eat. The only way to be certain that all those conditions have been met and that the meat is fit for religious purposes is to buy meat from reputable butchers or shops."

Sacrificing an animal, usually a sheep, is a religious practice performed at Eid-ul-Adha, which is expected to be celebrated next Thursday by Muslims.

It commemorates the time when the Prophet Ibrahim was willing to sacrifice his son for Allah.

Officers from the borough and Ribble Valley Council have been visiting local farms, asking farmers to contact them if they are approached to supply animals or use their farm buildings for illegal slaughter. Letters have also been sent to local butchers reminding them of the regulations and the correct documentation needed. Local religious leaders are also backing the campaign.

Last year officers from the borough and Ribble Valley Borough Council investigated reports of the illegal slaughter of animals at a farm in the Ribble Valley area, but found insufficient evidence to bring a prosecution.

Anyone who has information about illegal slaughter can contact environmental health officers on 01254 222542.