THE Malvern Hills have been officially closed to the public for the first time in history.

Walkers have been told to give the area a wide berth as part of the effort to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease.

Walkers' groups in the area had already suspended their activities in response to the deepening crisis.

Ian Rowat, director of Malvern Hills Conservators, said all footpaths, bridleways and commons, with the exception of Malvern Link Common, were off limits.

"Malvern Link Common is still open because it's in an urban setting and no stock graze it," he said.

"The aim of stopping people from walking the hills is to stop the transfer of the disease. People come to the hills from all over Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire and they could trample the disease across the hills and infect the sheep. Initially, MAFF say the incubation period is for 14 days."

Mr Rowat said people who ignore the order to stay away face a fine of up to £5,000. Herefordshire Council and Worcestershire County Council have closed all county footpaths and the National Farmers Union has been informed of the action.

Mike Woodbridge, Herefordshire Council's footpath officer for Ledbury, said: "We have several footpaths near the town passing over fields of grazing sheep and, in places, new-born lambs. Dog walkers also use these paths on a regular basis and will understand the importance of not only keeping away for the time being but watching out for anyone ignoring efforts to avoid the spread of this horrible disease. Children, for example, may feel tempted to take a chance.

"Please don't be the one to spread foot and mouth to Ledbury. It may take a few days for notices to be printed and put up but the message is simple - keep to the main roads and tell me or area warden Sam Beaton of any problems on 01531 634839."

Malvern Hills District Footpath Society has suspended its programme of walks until further notice. "There is no suggestion that there's any disease in the area we walk in," said Graham Myatt, the society's publicity officer. "But in view of the serious nature of the disease, we felt we has to act responsibly and curtail our programme.

Ledbury Walkers' Club has cancelled all walks until further notice. Powick Parish Ramblers have cancelled their walks for March and April. The Herefordshire branch of the Ramblers' Association has put its programme on hold. Group chairman Nick Rayner said: "We're asking all our members to stay away from the countryside. We hope other ramblers who are not members of the RA will follow suit."