FARMS are on red alert and the public is being kept off agricultural land in an attempt to stop foot and mouth disease reaching Bury.

Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary in Ramsbottom has also closed its doors to callers amid fears of further outbreaks which have been discovered in some parts of the country.

All local farms have become virtual "no go" areas with notices warning the public to stay away and a ban on the movement of livestock. Walkers are being urged to stay off footpaths and moorland for fear of spreading the disease, and Bury police are on alert to stop any illegal transportation of livestock.

The epidemic which has forced the slaughter of pigs, cattle and sheep at affected farms nationwide prompted the Holcombe Hunt to suspend its activities. Bleakholt's self-imposed quarantine restriction is being taken to protect visitors, said general manager Neil Martin.

The sanctuary houses around 500 animals. But its 50-strong stock of pigs, sheep and goats are the animals most at risk.

Mr Martin said: "We do not want to under-react and then find out we have got foot and mouth in the sanctuary.

"We are not going to move any animals until the problem is resolved. Please do not come in as you will not get into the sanctuary," he advised.

This week, the Holcombe Hunt announced it would stop riding until the outbreak is contained. "We don't want to spread the infection or upset any of our local farmers," said Hunt master Arnold Greenhalgh.

Although no cases of foot and mouth have yet been reported in the county, Radcliffe dairy farmer Mr Andrew Stott (39), is remaining vigilant.

"We are monitoring the situation and are prepared to put straw down and disinfect it as necessary," added Mr Stott who, along with his father Albert, runs Coney Green Farm.

He is urging local people to stay away from the farm which has a herd of more than 80 cows and around 210 sheep.

"There is a public footpath running through the farm and on Sunday (Feb 25) two walkers passed through and stroked the cows before I could stop them," disclosed Mr Stott.

"Obviously, we want to discourage this and are asking people to stay away."

Mr Rodney Bacon from the National Farmers' Union North West, said: "Some farms have public rights of way on their land. We are asking people not to use these rights of way if they pass through livestock areas."

Disinfectant stations have been set up at farm entrances for those who need to gain entry for special services, such as the collection of milk from dairy herds or the delivery of feedstuff.

For the latest on the foot and mouth outbreak see our National News Update on the left link