A SOUTH MOLTON farmer whose wild boar business has been under the spotlight for four years has won a legal battle against the government to save his livelihood.

Al Dedames, of Woodland Wild Boar Farm, West Anstey, appeared at the High Court yesterday to overturn an enforcement notice, served by North Devon Council, which claimed he lived on his farm without lawful permission.

Mr Dedames lived on site in a caravan to protect his animals after several attacks by suspected animal right's extremists in 2005 led to more than 100 boar being release.

He argued he had no choice and would be left homeless if forced to move out.

However, senior judge Sir George Newman, ruled that the farmer should be allowed to reapply for planning permission to the council.

The council agreed not to enforce the notices, which requested that caravans, vehicles, structures and hardstanding be removed from the land.

Speaking to the

Journal

, Mr Dedames, 42, said: "I know that I have won the battle for the time being.

"But it does not feel like I have, because I have to go through the whole process again.

"At least I know I can sleep safe on my land tonight."

Read Thursday's

Journal

for the full story.