Latest news with #Velux
Agriland
a day ago
- Agriland
Court: Woman fined €15,000 and banned from owning animals for life
A circuit court judge has banned a woman from owning animals for life and ordered her to pay €15,000 in costs as a result of 'one of the most appalling cases brought before him'. Karen Sanderson (68) with an address in England, and formerly of The Stables, Templelusk, Avoca, Co. Wicklow, was given a four-and-a-half year suspended prison sentence, banned from owning animals for life, and ordered to pay €15,000 in costs at Bray Circuit Court yesterday (Thursday May, 29). Sanderson had previously pleaded guilty to ten charges, under sections 11, 12 and 13 of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 (AHWA). It marked the final chapter in the case which originated from a complaint to the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) helpline in 2016. Court As a result of the call a total of 43 animals were removed from Karen Sanderson's rented property on November 18, 2016. ISPCA chief inspector, Conor Dowling, told Bray Circuit Court that when he called to the property Sanderson had rented near Avoca he saw five underweight horses in a dirty yard and mucky arena. In stables off the same yard, he also found a wild boar in a 'filthy stable and a pig that was unable to stand in another'. The court was told that neither of the animals had access to water or a clean lying area. In three other stables twelve dogs were discovered living in squalid conditions, with no bedding or water. Inspector Dowling also told the court that there was a 'horrendous smell' from the stables and how he saw ripped up remains of dog food bags scattered around. He also detailed that a german shepherd housed in a group of five dogs was only days away from whelping and that she later produced nine puppies, some of which were deformed and none of which survived. The inspector outlined how another dog was an aged Mastiff with chronic osteoarthritis and an old injury, rendering one of his legs useless. Euthanised Bray Circuit Court was told that this dog was euthanised approximately a week later, on veterinary advice. ISPCA chief inspector also described to the court that when he visited Karen Sanderson's rented property on November 18, 2016 he had proceeded up a metal stair to the door of a loft dwelling. He said that the stair and the roof of the building were covered in dog faeces and that he formed the opinion that excrement was being thrown out of Velux windows in the roof. When he knocked on the door of the dwelling, he heard more barking and shouting noises from inside, and decided to request assistance garda assistance. The court was told that gardaí arrived at the scene and made contact with the accused, Karen Sanderson. The ISPCA chief inspector then described how, when the door of the dwelling was opened, dogs came 'spilling' down the stairs. A further 31 dogs, including some giant breeds, were found living in on the property in what the Inspector described a, 'a stressful and chaotic environment'. Inspector Dowling said that there was faecal matter on every surface in the dwelling, and the stench of ammonia was so strong that according to the ISPCA it hurt his eyes and made it difficult for him to breathe. He described how there was a pool of urine in the hallway and a video was played for the court in which the accused tried to claim that the dogs had just urinated when the investigators had called at the door. The court was also shown photographs of a selection of animals including a Cocker Spaniel that could not use its hind legs and was dragging itself through the soiled environment, and a Mastiff which had an injury to its toe so severe that some of the bone was protruding, and the dog was gnawing at the exposed bone. The Mastiff required surgery to amputate its toe. It was agreed that most of the animals needed to be removed from the premises immediately, and chief inspector Dowling enlisted the help of Wicklow SPCA, Wicklow Dog Pound, the Irish Horse Welfare and Trust and Dogs Trust, in removing the animals. A veterinary practitioner attended the scene and recommended that a pig that could not stand, be euthanised to prevent further suffering. The court was also told that subsequent veterinary examinations of the animals removed from the premises revealed a catalogue of health issues including injuries, flea infestation, ear mites, worms, skin irritation, matted and soiled coats, ear infections, chronic arthritis, cherry eye, mud fever and rain scald. Inspector Dowling said that, while the pig and the two geriatric Mastiffs were euthanised, the majority of the animals had made full recoveries. On sentencing, Judge Patrick Quinn described the case as, 'one of the most appalling cases brought before him', and said that all the offending was at the upper end in terms of gravity. He also questioned how it got this far, and how no one could notice what was going on, not just for the animals but for the defendant too. Judge Quinn said that the accumulation of more and more animals in the space of three or four years would have contributed to the defendant being overwhelmed to the point that she could not cope and became a welfare concern for the animals as well as a mental health issue for herself. Judge Quinn handed down a suspended sentence of four and a half years for each count, to run concurrently, and banned the woman from owning animals for life; she was also ordered to pay €15,000 in costs, to be paid within twelve months as a condition of the bond. ISPCA Commenting on the outcome of the case, Conor Dowling, ISPCA chief inspector said he was relieved that it had reached a successful conclusion with the animal owner held accountable before the courts. 'We are always mindful of working with vulnerable people, but our priority is for the welfare of the animals involved. 'This situation should never have been allowed to develop as it did, where animals were left to suffer. 'Anyone who chooses to keep animals has both a legal and moral responsibility to adequately care for them, and if you are unable to do so, you should seek help,' he added. The ISPCA wants anyone who has suspicions of animal cruelty, neglect or abuse to report this on its confidential National Animal Cruelty Helpline by calling 0818 515 515, emailing helpline@ or via its website.
South Wales Argus
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- South Wales Argus
Stylish barn conversion on the market near Usk for £950,000
The property, known as Sycamore Retreat, is being listed by Number One Agent, Katie Darlow, who describes it as a "stylish" home with no chain. Located just outside the Town of Usk, the barn conversion is nestled down a quiet lane in a private position just off the Usk Road. The surrounding area offers a peaceful countryside that can be explored and enjoyed at leisure. (Image: Number One Real Estate via Zoopla) The property is also in close proximity to several local amenities, including bars, restaurants, local antique stores, coffee shops, and a bakery. There is also a doctor's surgery, veterinary clinic, a popular athletic club, and a primary school nearby, making it an ideal location for a family. Newport is just a 20-25 minute drive away, with the nearest M4 junction being only 15 minutes away. Newport offers additional attractions and access along the M4 corridor to Bristol, Cardiff, and beyond. The interior of Sycamore Retreat is described as a "tranquil space" with an ideal layout for family living. The barn conversion boasts quality fixtures and fittings and has been finished to a high standard throughout. (Image: Number One Real Estate via Zoopla) The spacious open plan kitchen, dining room, and snug set the tone for the property, with traditional yet modern features. The kitchen features a superb island, seating for casual dining, a Belfast sink, and integrated appliances including a fridge, freezer, and dishwasher. (Image: Number One Real Estate via Zoopla) A boiler room is neatly tucked away, and there is a convenient downstairs cloakroom. The sunken sitting room has a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams, capturing the full character of the barn. A log-burning fire and access to the lower patio make this a fantastic area for entertaining. The ground floor also features a utility room with fitted storage and underfloor heating throughout. (Image: Number One Real Estate via Zoopla) Upstairs, the principal bedroom has vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, and views of the countryside. It also has extensive space for storage and a seating area, with an ensuite shower room fitted with travertine tiling and a heated towel rail. The property also has two other double bedrooms with country decor and Velux skylights that share a Jack and Jill shower room. A fourth bedroom is currently being used as a study. The family bathroom is also on the landing, boasting travertine tiling, a free-standing bath suite, and a separate shower unit. Externally, the property was fully renovated in 2016 and has an impressive exterior, with original stone to the barn, while the double garage and sitting room exterior are both wood cladded. (Image: Number One Real Estate via Zoopla) The gated driveway is set to light gravel and is privately enclosed by mature conifers and red robin trees. The double garage has two electric oak doors, attic space, and a separate office that is fully insulated with heating and WiFi. The property also has underfloor heating in the kitchen, living room, and master bedroom. (Image: Number One Real Estate via Zoopla) Number One Real Estate advises that a tree within the property's boundaries is subject to a tree preservation order. All services and mains water are connected to the property, and the broadband internet is provided via cable. The sellers are subscribed to BT, and the mobile signal/coverage at the property is reported to be good. The owner is subscribed to Giff Gaff. The annual site management fee is £600, and the council tax band is G. For more information or to arrange a viewing, prospective buyers are advised to contact Number One Real Estate.
The Irish Sun
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
The ‘magnificent' family mansion on Irish market with sea views from every room & minutes from busy city for €4.5million
THIS luxury family mansion has landed on the Irish market for €4.5million and it comes with a private balcony, sea views and a library. The property located in Dalkey, Co. Advertisement 8 The stunning mansion has amazing sea views Credit: 8 It features an open plan living space Credit: 8 There are loads of quirky features that make this house unique Credit: The five-bedroom, five-bathroom house sits at Katama, Mount Salus Road amid a backdrop of the Dublin Bay with views from Dalkey Island and across to Howth. And there are views of the sea from every single room. Outside the gorgeous house are beautiful, sloping south-westerly facing gardens and woodland with both mature native and exotic trees that extend to approximately 1.25 acres The house has an open plan living area with a grand staircase splitting it in the centre. Advertisement READ MORE IN PROPERTY To one side sits a large living area with an open fireplace and large windows allowing natural light to flood the space. One side of this room tapers to an angular corner space lined with shelves. This creates the perfect little library nook and an office space also sits in this area. And to the other side sits a modern kitchen with a large island in the centre. Advertisement Most read in Money Six full-length windows connect the living area and kitchen and here sits the main dining area of the house. An open steel and maple wood, thread stairwell divides in two from the space up to the first floor Inside Graham Norton's incredible £6million New York townhouse he bought from huge supermodel as Brit star puts property on the market On the first floor is a family bathroom, en-suite bedrooms, a utility room and a linen closet. All of the rooms boast ample space even with a double bed and furniture dotted around the rooms. Advertisement The master bedroom is a real gem in this gorgeous 1990s build. It features a double-glazed hardwood door opening out to the balcony that boasts amazing coastal views. 8 This circular library room is a hidden gem Credit: 8 The master bedroom boasts a beautiful balcony Advertisement 8 This window seat area is the perfect place to relax or curl up with a book Credit: There is also a vaulted ceiling and solid maple floors. The room opens out on to a lobby with a door to the dressing room with box shelving and hanging space, and opens into the en-suite. This bathroom features a large bath set into tiled surround, pedestal wash-hand basin, built-in mirrors and a Velux skylight. Advertisement It also has a step in tiled Grohe power shower. DOWNSTAIRS AREA A large staircase leads down to the garden level area of this house. The stairs are in the middle of a circular library room lined floor to ceiling with bookshelves. This downstairs area features a bedroom that boasts gorgeous sea views and a staircase leading down to a study area. Advertisement Also on this level is a kitchenette-style room with a range of fitted press units, drawers, integrated fridge, London-style sink set into butcher block worktop, integrated oven, four-ring hob induction and a tiled splashback There is also a small sitting room space and room for a small dining area. Also on this level is a OTHER FEATURES Some other stars of this vast property include a window seat, part of the Tom de Paor design. Advertisement And there are feature double folding double glazed doors opening out to a Juliet balcony. There is gravelled off-street parking for numerous cars also on offer with this house. A "sun-trap" patio for outdoor dining is also a huge draw. It has a BER rating of B3 and is listed by Lisney Sotheby's International Realty. Advertisement 8 The ground floor area has a small kitchenette Credit: 8 The dining area has an amazing view Credit:
Otago Daily Times
23-05-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Showhome showcases many features
Fowler Homes' Queenstown franchisee Jason McGirr with his company's new Jack's Point showhome. PHOTO: PHILIP CHANDLER A home building company's new high-end Jack's Point showhome is designed to show off a wide range of materials and 'smart home' features. The four-bedroom, 245sqm home, on Cunningham Dr, will be Fowler Homes' local showhome for at least the next two years. A striking feature is the exterior, which is clad in bandsawn cedar with a charred and brushed finish "so we don't have to touch it again", Queenstown franchise owner Jason McGirr says. The exterior is also notable for a corten steel feature entranceway and a schist-clad chimney inside and outside surrounding a gas fireplace. McGirr says he's proudest of "the level of detail and spec the team got in, from the engineered foundations to the finishings in the rooms, the interior design work — we've really not held back on any specification". The idea, he adds, is to show prospective clients the level of craftsmanship they can expect whatever type of home they want. Local architect David Stringer designed the home, with McGirr's own interior-design team also involved. McGirr points to the showhome's several different ceiling heights, from 2.7m in the two-car garage to almost 5m in the kitchen-dining area. In addition, there are about 11 Velux skylights in the main areas. Among several smart-home features are underfloor heating and lighting that can be dialled in for each room. McGirr has entered the home in the showhome category of Registered Master Builders' annual house of the year awards.
South Wales Argus
23-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- South Wales Argus
House with Usk Valley views in Pontypool up for sale
'Delfryn', situated on a quiet lane in Jerusalem Lane, Pontypool, was constructed over 40 years ago by Meadgate Homes. The house has been cherished by its current owners for two decades, who have also made several enhancements to it. The house boasts four bathrooms, three reception rooms, and has a wooden floored interior that is filled with natural daylight. The highlight of the house is the modernised kitchen/diner, which features Velux roof lights and large bifold doors that lead to the garden. The garden itself is a private oasis, complete with a water feature and numerous areas for outdoor recreation, including a wood-fired pizza oven. The house also has a hidden games room with a bar and snooker table. There is potential to expand the property, with the integral double garage being a strong contender for conversion into an annexe for multi-generational living. Tucked away off a private lane, the house still enjoys excellent access to a wealth of amenities. (Image: Zoopla) (Image: Zoopla) (Image: Zoopla) (Image: Zoopla) (Image: Zoopla) (Image: Zoopla) There is a primary school within walking distance, along with a large selection of both state and independent schools close by. Llandegfedd Reservoir, which offers sailing and other water sports, is very nearby. Numerous golf courses and large leisure centres are also within easy reach. The road network is excellent, with Cardiff and Bristol only 30 minutes away. Fine & Country, the estate agents handling the sale, said: "The owners will take only happy memories, knowing its new owners will enjoy an exceptional quality of life. "Tucked away off a private lane, this handsome home is a modern mansion that oozes luxury and elegance yet is effortlessly welcoming. "The sizeable rear garden boasts numerous sun-drenched terraces from which to immerse yourself in the mesmerising, panoramic view of the rural landscape." Delfryn is listed with estate agents Fine & Country for £1,195,000. For more information, or to arrange a viewing, call 029 2227 4831.
