A MAYBOLE farmer who neglected his cattle and allowed one of them to die in the dirt is trying to sell his farm.

Detlef Meier, of West Mainshill Farm, admitted failing to take reasonable steps to ensure the needs of a highland bred bovine animal were met.

The 64-year-old did not provide with a suitable environment to live and the highland cow was found partially submerged in mud, deceased on February 9, last year.

Meier owned up to failing to provide the rest of the cows with an adequate feeding regime, access to drinking water, a suitable environment, inappropriate ground conditions, shelter and resting area between Jan 22, 2016 and February 16, 2016.

He appeared before Sheriff John Montgomery at Ayr Sheriff Court last week. The court heard how Meires is trying to sell the farm and move abroad.

Speaking on his behalf, defence solicitor Gregor Forbes, said: "He hopes to return in a short time to Germany. He wants to sell the property. "He could sell the property from Germany if need be. The tenancy is for two years."

Sheriff Montgomery asked: "How much was the property sold for originally?"

Mr Forbes replied: "£2600 which was the net figure. I think people are aware of what he might expect to get."

Sheriff Montgomery added: "I don't see how the publicity should affect the value of the place."

Mr Forbes said: " He lives off this farm."

Sheriff Montgomery deferred sentence until later on the month to ensure that the selling of the cattle can be vouched for.