THE first case of foot and mouth disease was reported back in February. At the time we knew this was bad news, but we could never have guessed how bad.

By May, with a General Election pending, the Government suggested that the outbreak was all but licked. That proved to be the least accurate prediction of the year.

Just days before 2002, the disease is still making headlines. We even witnessed the bizarre sight of huntsmen and women, unable to ride into the countryside, parading around Malton market place on Boxing Day.

Now, however, the end really does seem in sight. The last case of foot and mouth was recorded more than three months ago.

Restrictions remain in "at risk" North Yorkshire. The county must clear several more hurdles, and satisfy national and international criteria, before it can finally be declared free of foot and mouth.

Nevertheless, reaching the three-month point before the end of the year is hugely symbolic. It offers the rural community a clean slate as we go into the New Year, a chance to build something from the ashes of the livestock pyres.

Farmers must wait until the official all-clear before they can properly develop new herds. Meanwhile, there has never been a more apt moment to debate the future direction of farming in Britain. Agricultural reform is necessary, and it is time we got on with it.

Tourist businesses - those that have survived - will be hoping for a bumper 2002 summer season to help cut the debts from a disastrous year. But hope is not enough.

Plans should be drawn up now for a massive publicity drive to encourage people back into the countryside next spring. The English and Yorkshire Tourist Boards should take the lead in this initiative.

The campaign must be backed by a generous Government grant. So far ministers have been parsimonious towards non-farming rural businesses hit by foot and mouth. That must change, and quickly.

Updated: 10:22 Friday, December 28, 2001