TWO Weaverthorpe people have been banned from keeping a dog for five years and given suspended prison sentences by Scarborough magistrates.

Ann Elizabeth Johnson, 49, of Rarey Drive, appeared at court last week for sentencing on two charges of failing to prevent the causing of unnecessary suffering to an animal, a male springer spaniel, at her home between April 11 and May 11 this year.

As well as being banned from keeping a dog she was given a three- month 7pm-7am curfew and a 12-week prison sentence suspended for 12 months.

Brian Walter Johnson, 72, of the same address, also appeared for sentencing on three similar charges also involving a springer spaniel. He was given an 18-week prison sentence suspended for 12 months, plus the same ban and curfew.

The charges were brought by the RSPCA.