THE RSPCA has repeated its offer to help farmers hit by livestock movement restrictions.
The charity sent out letters to 5,700 farmers in foot and mouth-hit Northumberland, Lancashire, Cumbria and Yorkshire.
RSPCA chief veterinary officer, Chris Laurence, said: "We have been concerned for some time that food shortages would begin to cause major problems in the autumn. We are urging farmers to ask for help rather than waiting and hoping for the best."
A dedicated team of RSPCA inspectors, all trained in biosecurity issues, is continuing to work to ease the suffering of farm animals caught up in the foot and mouth crisis. As well as providing and co-ordinating offers of food and bedding, RSPCA officers are working inside the Intervention Board to prioritise and speed up applications for slaughter on welfare grounds.
The operation has so far cost the society in the region of £1m, with no end to the crisis in sight. Farmers who fear their animals are likely to suffer should contact the RSPCA's 24-hour cruelty and advice line on (08705) 555999. Calls are charged at the national rate.
Updated: 08:51 Thursday, September 20, 2001
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