THERE have been no new outbreaks of foot and mouth in West Devon since Easter Sunday, April 15.
The total number of cases in the county, as of Wednesday lunchtime, stood at 148. A MAFF spokesperson said they were all keeping their fingers crossed this signalled the beginning of the end.
Up to Tuesday night a total of 243,877 animals had been slaughtered — none are awaiting slaughter. 109,552 carcasses have been disposed of, leaving more than 134,000 awaiting attention.
Cases confirmed last week in the Times' circulation area are: Yelland Farm, Okehampton, on Wednesday — 300 sheep have been slaughtered; Walson Barton Farm, Broadwoodkelly, on Thursday — 100 cattle, 658 sheep. Good Friday: Place Farm, Okehampton — 250 cattle, 600 sheep. Saturday: Minehouse Farm, Okehampton — 156 cattle 142 sheep and Lower Mills, Lewdown — 134 cattle, 177 sheep. Easter Sunday Leawood House Bridestowe — 137 cattle.
l New rules have been introduced within the 3km encircling an infected farm to allow some movement of stock. Farmer Fred Penwill who has been fighting a desperate battle to keep 500 sheep alive in appalling conditions on his Dartmoor farm has been allowed to move them across the road to a new pasture.
l Sheep dogs facing destruction following the loss of flocks are being offered a future by the charity Border Collie Rescue, based in Richmond, Yorkshire. Contact 01748 850025.
l A corporate rescue and recovery specialist has said businesses hit by the foot and mouth crisis can avoid ruin if they act quickly.
Steve Williams, a partner at Begbies Traynor, said: 'Business owners quite understandably want to avoid all talk of receivers and rescue packages. However, if businesses act early enough they will have a fighting chance of avoiding total financial ruin.'