2001 UK foot-and-mouth outbreak - 25 years on: "It was the worst time of my life"

Auctioneer Andrew Templeton, of Harrison & Hetherington, reflects on a defining chapter in British agriculture's history, the emotional impact of working in the industry at the time, and why the sector has still not fully recovered since

Chris Brayford
clock • 4 min read
Andrew Templeton, auctioneer at Harrison & Hetherington, said: "We must remember, for livestock farmers, it was total devastation. Since that day, there is not a livestock farmer who has not uttered the words, ‘We must not let the marts close again', at some time or another."
Image:

Andrew Templeton, auctioneer at Harrison & Hetherington, said: "We must remember, for livestock farmers, it was total devastation. Since that day, there is not a livestock farmer who has not uttered the words, ‘We must not let the marts close again', at some time or another."

It has been 25 years since the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak brought the livestock industry to a standstill. For Harrison & Hetherington auctioneer Andrew Templeton, it remains the most devastating...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358
Register for free Join Now

 

More on Farm Life

Farming matters: David Webster – "Open Farm Sunday is the sector's opportunity to articulate the value of agriculture to a wider audience"
Farm Life

Farming matters: David Webster – "Open Farm Sunday is the sector's opportunity to articulate the value of agriculture to a wider audience"

This week's opinion from throughout the world of agriculture: David Webster, chief executive of Leaf

David Webster
clock 16 May 2026 • 3 min read
The road to diversity in agriculture - "The biggest way to break down barriers is to engage"
Farm Life

The road to diversity in agriculture - "The biggest way to break down barriers is to engage"

How are we encouraging inclusion and attracting new people to the sector? Emily Ashworth finds out more

Emily Ashworth
clock 15 May 2026 • 9 min read
Reintroduction of Sea Eagles to Exmoor moves to next phase
Farm Life

Reintroduction of Sea Eagles to Exmoor moves to next phase

The National Sheep Association warns the reintroduction threatens farm livelihoods and wellbeing

Mia Willemsen
clock 14 May 2026 • 2 min read