Smell of death lingers after horse carcass lies festering in Ardboe for five days

The decomposing carcass, which has left a lingering smell in the area, was reported to the Mail on Friday by a website set up to name and shame fly-tippers in Ardboe.

It is understood the animal was dumped there sometime that day, and that the council had been made aware of the situation.

The Mail then reported the find on Saturday morning.

However, according to sources, there was a mix up between the council and an external contractor in relation to who would deal with the corpse - and it lay rotting at the ‘Drum’ until just after 10am this morning.

Local councillor Ronan McGinley said on Facebook this morning: “I have just spoken with officers from Mid Ulster council in relation to the dumped horse on the lough shores not being removed.

“The officers have assured me they have been working with partners to have this resolved, delay unfortunately occurred due to the bank holidays.

“They are actively working on the situation at present and have estimated that the issue will be resolved in the next number of hours.”

He has since told the Mail: “I’m glad this situation has been resolved before it escalated into a more severe environmental health problem. I know local people are very angry with the animal being dumped.

“I am aware of local concerns about the delay in lifting the animal, which are understandable, however I would like to thank the council officials who acted promptly and efficiently this morning after they were made aware that the animal had not been removed.”

“Now this situation has been resolved, more needs to be done in relation to the ongoing problem of illegal dumping in this area,” Cllr McGinley added.

“I think it’s unnecessary and therefore I will be working with the council and relevant stakeholders to ensure what can be done is being done.”