Temporary control zone lifted

The outbreak was suspected ten miles east of the existing surveillance zone on a farm near Dorking after farmer Lawrence Matthews spotted some of his cattle were drooling.

However, it is understood that the cattle were suffering from pneumonia which can initiate similar symptoms to the foot-and-mouth virus.

After the latest farm results proved negative chief veterinary officer Debby Reynolds urged farmers to remain vigilant to stamp out the disease.

“This is day eight of the foot-and-mouth outbreak. I must stress the need for relentless vigilance. It is crucial that all animal keepers continue to check their animals regularly and practice the highest levels of biosecurity.

“There is a substantial operation on the ground to prevent the spread of disease and we are seeing a tremendous response. I would like to thank all of those involved,” said Mrs Reynolds.

Defra reiterated that the national movement ban remains in place but licenses have been granted outside of the surveillance zone under certain circumstances:

• Where dairy cows must cross a public road to be milked, if the road is fully cleaned afterwards.

• For movements of animals for emergency veterinary treatment.

• For movement of animals direct to slaughter.

• For the collection of dead animals from farms, and roadkill.

• For the movement of carcases, animal products, manure, slurry and used litter from a slaughter house. This excludes carcases and animal products intended for human consumption.