LOCAL producers were banned from the first Farmers' Market to be held in Ledbury since the foot and mouth crisis began

They were told to say away from last week's market, which attracted just three stallholders, because their businesses fell within restricted protection zones.

Peter Viner, of Little Verzons Fruit Farm, said: "Of course, we're bound to be disappointed but there are rules and we will abide by them. It's how it is."

The ban on local producers came from Herefordshire Council, following discussions with the Agriculture Development and Advisory Service (ADAS).

Dave Ravenscroft, Herefordshire Council's client services manager, said: "We've been working with ADAS to carry out risk assessments on who should be allowed to attend Farmers' Markets.

"On their advice, all producers living within a 3km zone of an infected farm and all meat producers within a 10km zone are not allowed to attend. We understand the frustration and we're as keen as anyone else to get back to normal."

The Herefordshire Food Links food promotion body, which arranged the Farmers' Market with Herefordshire Council, said trade on the day was very quiet with so few stallholders at St Katherine's Walk.

Co-ordinator Diana Palmer said: "We're hoping it will really start up again soon. As soon as the D-notices are lifted, everything will be as before. Of course, Ledbury producers were disappointed, but we don't have a choice. We have to abide by the regulations."

Regular local favourites missing from the market on Thursday, June 28, included meat trader Jackie Samuel, of Orlham Farm, and Janet Mackay of the organic apple drink company, Jus.