A SUPPORT package has been drawn up for farmers in the wake of the foot and mouth disease crisis.

A three-part plan has been launched by the North West Regional Development Agency (NWDA) and aims to get farmers back on track after two months of movement restrictions.

The disease crisis began in Surrey back in August and brought UK agriculture to its knees as markets closed, and livestock could not be sold.

The NWDA will provide free business support worth £240,000 for farming and allied businesses facing cash-flow and operational difficulties.

This will be offered through Business Link and a further £30,000 in marketing support will also be available. Business Link can be contacted on 0845 00 66 888 or at www.businesslink. gov.uk/northwest