A CHAIRMAN has been chosen to head the committee holding Devon's inquiry into the foot and mouth crisis.

Professor Ian Mercer, CBE, will be the independent chairman of Devon County Council's Foot and Mouth Inquiry when it meets in the autumn.

Prof Mercer, 68, has enjoyed a long and distinguished career specialising in rural conservation and environmental issues. He has lived in Devon since 1959, much of that time in Moretonhampstead.

He was warden of the Slapton Ley Field Centre and Nature Reserve, and later Chief Officer for the Dartmoor National Park Authority.

Prof Mercer has considerable experience of serving on consultative bodies, including the Countryside Council of Wales and the Association of National Park Authorities.

Cllr Brian Greenslade, Chairman of the county council's Executive Committee, said he was delighted at the news.

'His standing, independence and knowledge of our county will give the kind of leadership to the inquiry which will enhance the proceedings and also makes its conclusions an authoritative statement on behalf of the people of Devon.

'It will also serve as robust evidence for the national inquiries and be a reference point for people to turn to as recovery happens and if further outbreaks occur,' said Cllr Greenslade.

Prof Mercer said: 'I very much welcome the chance to contribute to the outcome of what has been a devastating crisis in the countryside of Devon. We, as a society, need to know how to avoid a repetition of the outbreak of foot and mouth, the way we deal with it and its aftermath.'

Prof Mercer said that aftermath involved the recovery of Devon's social and economic position, and the chance to take advantage of any opportunities which arise.

'I have been lucky enough to work closely with farmers all my life and I'm glad of this chance to help them,' he added.

As announced last week, the Devon Foot and Mouth Inquiry Committee will hold a series of public hearings at Exeter between October 8-12.

The inquiry will invite relevant evidence from various agencies, special interest groups and members of the public involved in the crisis, which must be submitted no later than September 28.

Members of the public can have their say by visiting the council website, http://www.devon.gov.uk">www.devon.gov.uk, or by calling 01392 383444 for an information pack and submission form.