REFUSE collections in rural areas are being curtailed by the need to contain foot and mouth disease.

Herefordshire Council has told its binmen not to collect from farms unless the farmer has requested it.

Farmers who are prepared to allow refuse collectors on their land should call the council on 01432 260051.

In the Malvern Hills area, farmers who normally have a "back-door" collection are being asked to put rubbish bags by the roadside.