AN illegal dog boarding business was shut down and its irresponsible operators forced to pay more than £3,000 each following action taken by Thurrock Council.

On Thursday, 26 November, the council successfully prosecuted Jay Hayers, 30, and Susan York, 56, for operating an unlicensed home dog boarding business, known as Max's Home Boarding, on Chadwell Road in Grays between Friday, 11 January 2019 and Friday, 5 July 2019.

The pair, who pleaded guilty at Southend Magistrates Court, were each fined a total of £2,500, ordered to pay costs of £1,250 and a £170 victim surcharge.

Cllr Rob Gledhill, Leader of Thurrock Council and Cabinet Member for Public Protection and Anti-Social Behaviour, said: "This case sends a strong message that we will not tolerate anyone who operates an animal boarding business without the appropriate licence to run one. Our residents want to know that their much-loved pets are being properly cared for.

"Animal boarding businesses must be inspected and approved by us to ensure that pet owners can leave their dogs or cats in a safe environment.

"Thank you to those who worked with our licensing team for their support in securing this prosecution. Residents can check this link for more information on animal welfare licensing, including boarding for cats or dogs, or to report an unlicensed business to us."

Hayers and York's address had been previously licensed for animal boarding but the pair had surrendered their licence in October 2018.