A Dartmoor farmer has admitted having the remains of four dead pigs and a sheep on his land.

Leon Smith, 62, was found with the animals at a smallholding at Meldon, near Okehampton, in February last year. He denies failing to provide a suitable environment for 13 collie dogs found at the same location on the same day and nine collies two days later. Smith, of Castleford House, Okehampton, appeared at Exeter Crown Court in a prosecution brought by Devon County Council's trading standards department.

He admitted five offences that at Meldon on February 14, 2011, he failed to dispose of animal by-products by not arranging for the disposal or incineration of dead pigs and sheep. He also admitted failing to ensure that animal carcasses were held in such a way that they did not allow access to animals or birds.

He denied failing to provide a suitable environment for 13 collies on February 14 and nine collies on February 16 last year.

Sean Brunton, prosecuting, said there would need to be a trial over the disputed matters.

Judge Barry Cotter, QC, adjourned the case for a further pre trial review.