A BROTHER and sister, convicted of animal cruelty charges for the second time in two years, were given six-month suspended jail sentences when they appeared before magistrates yesterday.

William Leonard Tinkler, 58, and Dorothy Margaret Tinkler, 57, admitted 21 offences of cruelty and neglect in January 2001 and, as well as fines and costs, were banned from keeping livestock for five years.

The case was highlighted as part of an RSPCA campaign for tougher animal cruelty sentencing.

However, when the RSPCA visited the two farms the pair own in Faceby, North Yorkshire, in February 2002, officers found more emaciated animals living in squalid conditions.

The Tinklers were subsequently convicted of another seven charges of causing their livestock unnecessary suffering and three of keeping animals despite the ban, after a two-day hearing last month.

As well as the jail terms, which were suspended for two years, the Tinklers were also banned from keeping livestock for life and ordered to pay prosecution costs of £8,716.81.

The chairman of the bench, John Seymour, said: "Together, these are the most serious offences we have ever been faced with and we therefore intend to exercise our maximum powers.

"One of the most concerning features is that you do not believe you have done anything wrong and have offered no remorse, yet the standard of care you offered your livestock is well below the acceptable level."

Mr Seymour said the Tinklers, of Goulton Holme Farm, Faceby, were extremely fortunate not to be behind bars last night. Only frail health, their age and likely vulnerability in prison saved them.

After the hearing, the RSPCA's Chief Inspector, Neil Mitchell, said he was pleased with the outcome.

He said: "I am extremely satisfied. The magistrates have seen it was a serious case and have dealt with it accordingly.

"This sends out a message that cruelty will not be tolerated - but it is a shame that these two people have let down the farming community in the area."

After their first appearance two years ago, the couple launched an appeal, which was subsequently abandoned.

Yesterday, their solicitor, Patrick Till, said: "I think an appeal this time is extremely unlikely.