AN investigation has been launched into a charity’s claims it uncovered cruelty to animals at a slaughterhouse.

The Food Standards Agency has acted against A&G Barber, based in Purleigh, after secret footage, taken by Animal Aid, claimed to show pigs being kicked in the face, hit in the face with shackle hooks and inadequately stunned.

The footage was taken at the abbatoir at Corporation Farm, in Hackmans Lane, over three days in April and was made public as part of Animal Aid’s campaign for the mandatory installation of CCTV at all slaughterhouses.

Its head of campaigns, Kate Fowler, said: “The system has failed to protect animals from violence. “Our campaign to have CCTV installed in all slaughterhouses – which now has the support of the Food Standards Agency – would help ensure best practice and provide evidence for prosecutions.”

The Food Standards Agency confirmed action had been taken against the company.

A spokesman said: “One slaughterman had his licence suspended and revoked, and the abattoir and slaughtermen are currently being investigated with a view to prosecution.”

A&G Barber employs about 30 people.