The owner of Hazelgrove Farm near Ryde has pleaded guilty to health and safety failings linked to a 2023 outbreak of cryptosporidiosis that left around 50 people unwell and led to a major public health investigation.
60-year-old Sharon Wheeler appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Friday (26th September), where she admitted breaching health and safety legislation.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) brought forward the prosecution following a serious outbreak of illness. The court heard that between 3rd April and 2nd May 2023, the farm failed to ensure the safety of members of the public during animal bottle-feeding activities.
As previously reported by Island Echo, Hazelgrove Farm suspended its popular hands-on tours after at least 2 people were hospitalised and dozens more fell ill. An investigation later confirmed the cause as cryptosporidium – a microscopic parasite that can cause gastrointestinal illness.
By mid-May 2023, authorities had confirmed around 50 cases were linked to the farm. The UK Health Security Agency South East, in conjunction with the Isle of Wight Council, launched a public health response, and HSE began its formal investigation.
At Friday’s court hearing, farm owner Sharon Wheeler admitted failing to conduct her undertaking in such a way as to ensure that non-employees were not exposed to risks to their health and safety. This breach falls under Sections 3 and 33(1)(a) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
The case has now been adjourned to 11th November 2025, when a written judgment and sentencing will be handed down at Southampton Magistrates Court. Wheeler has been excused from attending the sentencing hearing.
