CATTLE were being slaughtered on the fringe of Leigh as the first case of foot and mouth in the latest epidemic was confirmed.

On Tuesday, 46 bullocks were shot at Chadwicks Farm at Crankwood, mid-way between Leigh and Abram, and 20 cattle at a neighbouring farm were being killed yesterday as fear spread that more neighbouring herds may have to be culled.

A government spokesman said a suspected outbreak at Chadwicks was reported on Sunday, and was confirmed after blood samples were taken from animals.

He said: "The farm's 46 beef cattle were slaughtered on Tuesday on suspicion of foot and mouth. Test results confirmed they were infected. The cull was extended to a neighbouring farm yesterday."

Devastated farmer John Roberts told our reporter: "I haven't got time to comment at the moment."

Tests are being carried out at 70 neighbouring farms, within a 3km radius, to establish whether more culling is necessary. Twenty vets are in the area investigating suspected outbreaks of the disease.

At nearby canal-side New Bear Hey Farm, a 170-strong herd of beef cattle was being tested by men from the ministry. Farmer Gino Urbani declined to comment.

Restrictions are in place at Jim Grundy's farm in Slag Lane, Lowton. Mr Grundy said: "It's put us into difficulties. We are following all the regulations, disinfecting hay, our feet and vehicle wheels and hoping the worst never happens."

Mr Grundy's farm concentrates on horses which, although unaffected by foot and mouth, are carriers, and could pass it on to cattle and sheep.

Footpath and bridleway restrictions have been rapidly reintroduced by a concerned Wigan Council.

Mr Grundy said: "We don't know whether we have to stay on the farm with the animals or if we can ride our horses outside the farm. It's all happened so fast."

A council spokesman said: "Walkers in the area are asked to observe restriction notices which have been posted, prohibiting access to footpaths and rights of way within a 1km radius of the farm.

"Council officers will be carrying out spot checks to ensure restrictions are observed and anyone found breaching them will be subject to a fine of up to £5,000. In addition, dog owners are requested to keep their pets on a lead at all times.

"Farmers requiring advice on disinfection should call the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Foot and Mouth helpline 0845 0504141 or visit www.defra.gov.uk/footandmouth

"Some restrictions have also been re-introduced to Pennington Flash Country Park. We are taking these precautionary measures while waiting for DEFRA to confirm whether or not we have a case but we believe it is better to be safe than sorry."

Leigh MP Andy Burnham is urging people to abide by the restrictions in place to help prevent the disease spreading.

"It is a real shock to discover a case this late on in the national outbreak," he said. "Our top priority is to ensure it doesn't spread, so it is important people respect the closure of places like Pennington Flash."