A NATIONAL inquiry has condemned the treatment of animals at many of Britain's markets - including York's.

A report published today by the pressure group Animal Aid claims that York livestock market mistreats its cattle.

But the market's directors have been quick to hit back, saying the claims are a "complete fabrication".

Entitled Bartered Lives, the report examines the implementation of the Government's 1998 Welfare Strategy for animals passing through markets, and suggests there remain endemic problems of brutality and serious neglect.

The report states of York cattle market: "Overcrowding of cattle in pens, or keeping them for prolonged periods in crushes, is the main issue. Few animals have access to water."

Notes made at York cattle market on October 4 1999 states: "Electric devices used on cows in thoroughly unsuitable races (metal walkways). Sliding bars that are employed to usher cows along the race one-by-one are commonly used to batter cattle especially around their shoulders. This is to get them to move back. Liberal use of sticks. Very rough treatment of pigs who are hit with sticks around the head and body."

James Stephenson, a director at the Murton-based cattle market, said today this was not the case.

"Animals are our life blood," he added.

"We don't abuse them in any way at all. There is no way we would mistreat an animal.

"We are very concerned about the motives behind this organisation. They never introduced themselves and appear to be operating underground.

"They are attacking perfectly acceptable handling operations for animals that fall within current legislation and are carried out in the highest standards

"A lot of what is in the comment from Animal Aid is untrue and complete fabrication. For example, they complain about pigs being hit with sticks, and I have to point out that no stock handler in this market is allowed to use a stick in the pig section."

The report also expressed concern about conditions at the livestock market in Ripon, which was investigated by trading standards officers in 1997.

The Ripon report suggests widespread use of sticks and electric goads, and says that some animals had to be dragged into and out of trucks and lorries.

But Norman Bagley, auctioneer at Ripon Livestock Market, said today: "The RSPCA and the local trading standards are in our market every single week. We welcome them there and have had no complaints."