The RSPCA has said it found no cruelty at an Oxfordshire farmer's cat-breeding business.

A special team was invited to look at the premises at Hillgrove Farm, Minster Lovell, for two hours following allegations by animal rights campaigners.

The team included the head of the charity's animal research department, Maggie Jennings, and Oxfordshire chief inspector Doug Davidson.

In a statement issued today, press officer Julie Briggs said: "We watched the cats and staff in various units there and did not observe any evidence of cruelty or breach of any laws or code of practice.

"We have to stress that we do not approve or endorse the farm because we do not want to see animals bred for experimentation. But if places like it were closed down, animals would be brought in from overseas until such time as more humane alternatives are found."

Hillgrove cat farmer Chris Brown said today: "The RSPCA are a well-respected body and people should accept what they say, not the fraudulent allegations of the campaigners. "I don't know what all the hoo-ha is about. Our cats are well looked after."

The Save the Hillgrove Cats campaign announced this week it was planning a private prosecution against Mr Brown, claiming cruelty, which he denies.

The RSPCA team visited Hillgrove on June 16. Because of quarantine regulations, however, they were only allowed to observe conditions through windows.

The business is licensed by the Home Office, which carries out regular inspections.

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