FARMERS face a further increase in manufactured feed prices this winter, according to an East Lancashire-based animal feed company.

Howard Blackburn, general manager at Dugdale Nutrition, of Clitheroe, blamed the forecast increase on the withdrawal in EU countries of meat and bone meal from livestock rations because of the BSE scare.

He said the demand for high protein rations has never been higher and dramatically increased European demand will escalate prices further.

"The EU-wide ban on meat and bone meal will see a price increase in manufactured fees of as much as £7 a tonne," added Mr Blackburn.