THE SUCCESS of 'Fortress North Yorkshire' in the fight against foot and mouth means a number of popular York footpaths have been reopened.

And, in an extra boost for walkers, paths on the North York Moors look set to open again from October 1 - if no new foot and mouth cases are detected in the area.

This news comes after "satisfactory" results of a major moorland blood testing program.

'Fortress North Yorkshire' was set up in July in an attempt to contain the Thirsk foot and mouth hotspot.

Tight restrictions on animal movements were put in place over a wide area, stretching from Harrogate in the west, Malton in the east, and York's outer ring road in the south.

Strict bio-security measures were also put in place at gates of farms, and a number of rural road lay-bys were closed.

The aim was to protect three million animals from foot and mouth, including those in the vital pig breeding areas of East Yorkshire.

Despite the success of these restrictions though, walkers have been urged to stay vigilant and stick to the walkers' code when footpaths are reopened.

In total, 17 footpaths in the City of York area will be reopened, in areas including Strensall, Towthorpe, Haxby, Wigginton, Skelton and Huntington.

On the North York Moors, all rights of way will reopen apart from those within 3km of a confirmed foot and mouth case.

Peter Evely, City of York Council head of highway regulation, said: "We were obliged by DEFRA to close these paths but are reopening them after the bio-security measures were eased.

"Despite the relaxation of the restrictions though, we are urging members of the public and those in the farming industry to be vigilant and to take precautions to ensure York remains free from an outbreak of the disease."

Andy Wilson, North York Moors National Park Officer, said: "At last we can be cautiously optimistic and lift most access restrictions. We welcome this and intend to provide publicity and clear information to encourage people back to visit and enjoy the National Park."

For information about paths on the North York Moors ring 01439 770657, for those in the York area ring 01904 613161.

lThe National Trust's Beningbrough Hall and Gardens, just outside York, has reopened after being closed for eleven months.

"Public rights of way on the estate will be open but some footpaths will stay closed to provide protection for the farm," said a National Trust spokesman.

Updated: 11:09 Wednesday, September 26, 2001