Special advisors will work with farmers on a one-to-one basis

Of the 40 watercourses earmarked as priority areas in England, 11 are in the South West.

Farmers will be given help to minimise the dangers of pesticides and fertilisers which can run-off from fields and cause serious pollution.

The anti-pollution measures are due to start in March.

SOUTH WEST PRIORITY AREAS Chesil, The Fleet, Poole Harbour and River From Exe Catchment Dorset Stour (Middle reaches) Hampshire Avon Catchment South West Cornwall Catchments River Camel Rivers Axe and Otter Slapton Ley and Salcombe to Kingsbridge Catchments Somerset Levels and Bridgwater Bay Tamar and Tavy Catchments Yealm and Erme Catchments

The scheme was announced by Environment Minister Elliot Morley, who said tackling pollution from agriculture was one of the greatest challenges in boosting water quality.

The chemicals contained in the pesticides and fertilisers can have a serious effect on rivers, lakes, estuaries and beaches, by depleting oxygen levels, suffocating fish and reducing plant growth.

Mr Morley said reducing pollution would help protect plants and animals, improve beach water quality and would also benefit tourism.

Specially-appointed advisors will work with farmers on a one-to-one basis.

"This new initiative will help address the pollution threat by providing farmers with the understanding and know-how needed to improve farming practices."

English Nature and the Environment Agency have both welcomed the initiative.