Since 3 August 2007 there have been several confirmed cases of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), all in Surrey. A 3 kilometre Protection Zone has been put in place around the affected farms, with a 10 kilometre Surveillance Zone (SZ) beyond that. Affected animals have been culled. Laboratory results have confirmed that the virus strain is the same in each case. FMD is not contagious or dangerous to humans. Many farmers' markets during August and September took precautions and some in Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire closed to help prevent spread of the disease.

DEFRA have relaxed restrictions on the movement of livestock in most of the UK, however the South East is still subject to strict controls. These measures are to prevent the spread of the highly infectious disease (to livestock), not due to risk to human health. Restrictions on movement of livestock may result in short-term shortages of meat from some producers at farmers' markets and farm shops. Please continue to be understanding.

On 21 October a new FMD Restricted Zone (RZ) was established to include the existing SZ plus 20-30km. Strict movement restrictions continue to apply in both the new RZ and the existing SZ. The risk of disease outside the FMD RZ is very low but cannot be completely excluded. The SZ is not expected to be lifted before 5 November.

Please continue to support local food and your local farmers' market! Click on our map to find your nearest farmers' market.
- 25/10/07