A kennels in Welham Green has been fined £10,000 after operating illegally since 2021.

Glendee Kennel and Cattery, in Dixons Hill Close, failed to renew its licence in March 2021, and has been operating without it ever since.

The company's failure to renew its licence sparked an investigation by Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council.

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Despite receiving several warnings and instructions on how to renew the licence, Glendee Ltd continued to operate without one.

In March 2022, council officers visited the premises and confirmed that they were still operating illegally.

Legal action was then taken.

Georgina Armstrong, 54, and Glendee Ltd, appeared at St Albans Magistrates' Court on June 21 this year (2023).

                                                                                            

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There they were prosecuted for trading without a licence under The Animal Welfare Act 2006.

It was discovered that the company had taken approximately £651,000 in payments whilst acting without a licence.

Glendee Ltd was fined £10,000, whilst Georgina Armstrong was ordered to pay a total of £1,577.

The company has now applied for a licence which is currently under consideration.

Cllr James Broach said: "We would urge residents to ask to see a valid animal boarding/breeding licence before using facilities or purchasing a pet.

"The licence ensures that the facilities meet the government regulations including animal welfare, disease control, hygiene standards, exercise, and space standards.”