1,500 sheep to be slaughtered in Wales

Another mass cull of sheep has been ordered in the Welsh mountains amid fears of a major outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease.

1,500 sheep are to be slaughtered in the Brecon Beacons, fuelling fears that the disease has a firm foothold in the National Park and is spreading.

The situation is being closely followed by officials here, who are fearful of a return of foot-and-mouth because of complacency.

Only last week, the Minister for Agriculture Joe Walsh wrote to farmers warning them they must be vigilant.

Similar warnings have also been posted to all points of entry into the country asking the ports and airports to ensure every precaution is being taken.