REGARDING the article (LET, March 15), on the ban on the free movement of the public and dogs in certain parks in Darwen, I feel I must give a better explanation than that given in it by the council.

Quite clearly dog owner Ms Maureen Roberts and others obviously don't comprehend the enormity and seriousness of the foot and mouth epidemic.

The council has been given powers to close off far more areas of land and footpaths than those currently "out of bounds," but has chosen not to do so on the advice of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

The Ministry is satisfied with the original restrictions keeping the public and pets under proper control and off agricultural or farming land.

The three main parks in Darwen -- Whitehall, Bold Venture and Sunnyhurst Woods -- were previously closed at the fringes, but due to the actions of some irresponsible dog owners, walking in the adjacent fields and apparently letting their dogs roam free, the council took the view that it should draw in those boundaries.

Unfortunately, though it affects everyone, it is the only way to keep dogs and the public away from the farmland.

At the outset, the council sought to balance the needs of the public with those of the farmers.

Surely, therefore, Ms Roberts and her colleagues will agree that it is vital that we all adhere strictly to whatever measures the government implements for the wellbeing of the nation.

Contravention of the restrictions can lead to a fine of up to £5,000 and the authorities are currently considering whether to prosecute several offenders.

COUNCILLOR MAUREEN BATESON, Executive Member Citizens Rights and Consumer Affairs, Blackburn with Darwen Council.