LIVESTOCK farmers have put up the shutters in a bid to prevent foot and mouth disease wiping out cattle and pig herds and flocks of sheep in south Worcestershire.

Since the first outbreak was confirmed in Northumberland eight days ago, the disease has spread across the country, with the nearest outbreak in Herefordshire.

None but essential visitors are being allowed on to farms, and only then under the most stringent of hygiene measures.

The ban on the movement of stock has been extended for two weeks from tomorrow (Friday), and local authorities have emergency powers to close footpaths in areas under risk.

Stock markets are closed, all hunting called off and people urged to stay off farmland. National Hunt racing was suspended for seven days from yesterday (Wednesday), point-to-point meetings have been called off and many major events cancelled.

Supplies of home-produced meat will last a few more days and then supermarkets and independent butchers will have to source supplies from overseas - but shoppers have been told there's no need to panic.

The Government is expected to announce plans tomorrow (Friday) which will permit unaffected stock to go for slaughter.

NFU regional director in the West Midlands Bob Forster said farmers would do whatever it took to stop the disease turning into the complete catastrophe of the 1960s.

He stressed there were no implications for the human food chain and Dr Brian McClosky, Worcestershire. Director of Public Health, reaffirmed on Monday there was no danger to the public from foot and mouth.

On the temporary ban on exports of live animals and meat, Mr Forster said: "This ban will be devastating for us - it is like staring into an abyss.

"On top of all the problems we have had to surmount in the past few years, the impact is unthinkable. But it is in the interests of the whole of the British livestock industry that the spread of the disease is halted and there is simply no alternative."

The Ministry of Agriculture has set up a helpline for farmers, livestock handlers and others seeking specialist advice on 01905 763355; ask for the Foot and Mouth Advice Hotline.

Members of the public or those seeking general advice should use the national helpline number 0845 0504141. The MAFF website www.maff.gov.uk also contains regularly updated information.