A FORMER Tardebigge slaughterhouse which was re-opened at the height of the foot and mouth crisis to help with the cull has closed, writes Becky Procter.

The news brings more relief to farmers around Redditch and is being seen as a sure sign the effects of the devastating crisis have significantly reduced in the area.

Midland Meat Packers re-opened at the end of March to help MAFF slaughter animals living in dire conditions because of movement restrictions on farmers.

At the time, farmers near to the abattoir feared the move could increase the chances of lorries bringing the infection into the area.

Two weeks ago the Redditch Advertiser reported fears a suspected case of foot and mouth disease had hit a farm in Elcock's Brook had been quashed.

More than 180 sheep were slaughtered but test results later came back negative.