Sheep peer through bars of a lorry from which dozens died at the Port of Ramsgate

Farmers union bosses have called for a "full and frank investigation" into the circumstances that led to the closure of Ramsgate port to live exports.

The National Farmers Union has hit out at the ban out of the Kent port after more than 40 sheep died two weeks ago.

NFU chief livestock adviser Peter Garbutt said concerns had been raised as to why contingency plans to deal with emergencies didn't appear to have been followed.

He was speaking after exports were banned from Ramsgate when 46 sheep died two weeks ago - with two drowning and others suffering broken legs.

Some of the animals had to be shot on the advice of a vet due to lameness.

A bid to move live exports to Ipswich in Suffolk has already stalled - with just one sailing completed.

Mr Garbutt said the NFU had met with the RSPCA and other animal welfare groups in the past few weeks "to express our wish that the shortest route possible be used for animal transportation across the channel for that very reason.

"We have made it clear that the port of Dover would be the most suitable location, but as the boat being used is unable to dock there currently, Ramsgate is the next best option available."

He added: "Concerns have been raised with us as to why contingency plans to deal with such events do not appear to have been followed by the bodies overseeing the trade and with the pressure that was placed on government officials to sanction the slaughter of these animals at the port by the RSPCA when more humane alternatives may have been available.”

His statement comes after a bid to move the live exports to Ipswich was scrapped, after port bosses Associated British Ports (ABP) confirmed they didn't have suitable facilities for handling such animals in emergencies.

The RSPCA welcomed the move to halt live exports from Ipswich.

A statement from the animal charity said the trade moved to Ipswich just one week ago, following its suspension from Ramsgate.

One sailing of sheep to the continent has taken place from Ipswich.

Gavin Grant, RSPCA chief executive, said: "I am delighted that ABP have suspended this dire trade. They are taking their responsibilities seriously to the animals.

"ABP have acknowledged to the RSPCA that, like Ramsgate, their port did not have suitable facilities to help the animals should an emergency arise. Sadly, we saw the unacceptable suffering in Ramsgate in just such an emergency.

"I am aware that the National Farmers Union is making efforts to re-open Ramsgate.

"I say to them that they should respect the views of the people of Ramsgate, Ipswich and this country that there is no place in a civilised and compassionate society for this vile trade that causes so much suffering to animals."