A BID for a licence to breed dogs in Rankinson has received two objections over previous illegal breeding.

Licensing chiefs will consider an application from Peter McIlwraith to breed dogs at Ashentree Farm, Rankinston, with a hearing to be held today [Wednesday].

The application received two objections – from neighbour Iain Wham and John Robins of the Animal Concern Advice Line complaining about barking of previous illegal breeding of dogs for sale on Gumtree.

However the applicant hit back saying one objector had behaved in an aggressive manner on his premises and admitted that previous illegal breeding was a ‘misunderstanding’.

Peter McIlwraith said: “With regards to illegal breeding this was totally a misunderstanding on my behalf for not fully understanding the allowed breeding allocation within each calender year. I have contacted the relevant department and have expressed my apologies.

“To my knowledge both Mr and Mrs Wham have been on my premises twice where they behaved in a threatening, abusive and aggressive way to my staff, family, customers and myself.

“Mr Robins to my knowledge has never visited my property, kennels or visually seen any of my dogs.”

A decision will be made at a meeting today (Wednesday).