Ramblers want more footpaths in Wales re-opened

On Saturday, 'Rebel' ramblers threatened to cross on to a closed footpath at Llandovery in west Wales at the weekend in a protest at restrictions.

And a group of 20 walkers was branded as "irresponsible" after ignoring pleas not to walk in a closed off area at Manorbier, Pembrokeshire.

Council officials have warned that any walkers caught flouting restrictions could face prosecution and a possible fine of up to �5,000.

Local authorities have been urged by UK Agriculture Minister Nick Brown to prosecute people who increase the risks of spreading the disease by walking through restricted parts of the countryside.

Meanwhile, the number of confirmed foot-and-mouth cases in Wales has reached 90, with a further positive test result in cattle at GJ & EJ Thomas, Porthmorddwr, Talgarth, Brecon, Powys.

There are a further eight suspected cases in Wales.

Crisis in Wales

Total confirmed cases UK-wide 1,595 - with 90 in Wales Powys - 55 cases Anglesey - 13 cases Monmouthshire - 16 cases Caerphilly 1 Rhondda Cynon Taff - 1 Neath Port Talbot -1 Newport - 3

The gradual re-opening of footpaths in the wake of the foot-and-mouth outbreak has brought criticism from walkers and farmers alike.

Ramblers have claimed there is "no excuse" for local authorities not to open paths more quickly - particularly in areas free of the disease.

But some farmers argue that paths should remain closed until foot-and-mouth has been entirely eradicated.

In mid Wales, Farmers in the Machynlleth area are warning of serious welfare problems if they are not allowed to move their livestock from Powys to Ceredigion.

Several farmers have farms or grazing land in Ceredigion but the current restrictions mean they cannot get movement licences from their local national assembly agricultural department offices.

Pen y Pass is one of four paths to reopen on Snowdonia

Farmer Rhian Williams from Machynlleth said they would normally move 120 cattle to their farm in Ynys Las, Ceredigion, but they had been unable to do so and grazing on their home farm was running out.

Under present rules much of mid Wales is classed as an "at risk" area whereas west Wales is a "clean area".

Farmers are not allowed to move animals from from a "dirty area" to a "clean area".

The National Farmers' Union Cymru wants the government to introduce clear licensing guidelines for shearing contractors in Wales.

NFU president Hugh Richards said guidance was urgently required as the shearing season approached this summer.

"Licences will be available for farmers to shear their own sheep, but guidelines for contractors, who carry out much of the shearing work in this country, must be made available as soon as possible," said Mr Richards.