A farmer and businessman has been accused of leaving the rotting carcasses of more than 350 animals lying on his estate.

John Ferguson, 50, is accused of leaving the dead animals on land at Welton of Creuchies farm in Alyth over a five-month period.

Ferguson, who owns a number of Perthshire businesses, is facing a total of three charges relating to the welfare of animals on his farm.

The farmer, who has a herd of 1120 sheep, is accused of failing to provide a suitable environment for his livestock between October 1 last year and February 23 this year.

It is alleged that he failed to remove in excess of 354 animal carcasses, having failed to provide adequate nutrition, a suitable diet or appropriate sheltered accommodation. The charge alleges that Ferguson failed to protect the animals from injury, suffering or disease by failing to get them treatment for liver fluke and failing to monitor the animals.

A second charge alleges that he caused 95 cows and stirks, young heiffers or bullocks, unnecessary suffering by failing to provide them with adequate nutrition during the same time period.

That charge alleges that Ferguson, by an act or omission, caused the beasts unnecessary suffering by failing to provide treatment for lameness and liver fluke.

A third charge alleges that he failed to hold 340 sheep and 14 cattle carcasses in a manner which would prevent other animals and birds getting access to them.

Ferguson, who lives on the farm, was not present at Perth Sheriff Court when the case called on Tuesday.

The case was continued without plea until next month.