WHAT a relief. Tests on suspected cases of foot and mouth disease on a North Yorkshire farm have come back negative.

While it was good to see the authorities remaining vigilant for signs of a renewed outbreak, it was marvellous to learn that this is a false alarm.

All the restrictions relating to the incident have been lifted. Farmers can return to rebuilding their herds, and the tourism industry can redouble its campaign to bring back the visitors. We can step into spring with renewed hope.

Updated: 10:48 Monday, March 04, 2002