THE RSPCA were yesterday (August 14) bitterly disappointed at a Bury magistrates decision not to ban a Radcliffe father and son from owning pets.

Mr Graham Smith and his son David were each fined £50 after pleading guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to their cat.

A scratch on its head had developed into a tumour after going untreated for two months. The cat, named Ginger, was later put to sleep by an RSPCA vet.

Following yesterday's court hearing, RSPCA Inspector Phil Wilson said the request to stop the Smiths from owning an animal was more important than any fine.

"I am very disappointed with the outcome of this case," said Insp Wilson. "Both men failed to have the cat treated for its condition and it was left to suffer. In the two months the cat went without treatment, the tumour grew and covered half its head.

"A disqualification order is designed to stop incidents like this from happening again."

In court, magistrates were told how on May 28, RSPCA inspectors were called to the Smiths' home in Knowles Street, Radcliffe, after a call from a neighbour concerned for the cat. Prosecuting on behalf of the RSPCA, Mr David Robb said that while the inspectors attempted to reach the cat, Graham Smith identified himself as the owner.

The animal had a large seeping lump on the left side of its head.

During a later interview, Smith admitted that his cat had been in that condition for the past two months.

Mr Robb added: "The animal was taken to a vet in Bury where it was decided it would be more humane to put the cat to sleep." A charge of failing to provide necessary care and attention to the cat was levelled against Smith (45) and his 20-year-old son, because they lived at the same address and were both responsible for the welfare of the cat.

Mr Smith, a joiner with Salford City Council, said he had no intention of getting another cat.

Both were fined £50 and ordered to pay £126 each towards the prosection costs and veterinary bill.

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