Three further cases of foot and mouth disease in North Yorkshire have been confirmed by the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food (MAFF).
It is the largest number of confirmed cases in a single day in the county.
The disease was found in livestock at Temple Farm and nearby Scorton Road Farm, both of which are in East Cowton, north of Northallerton.
At Temple Farm, 275 sheep, 400 lambs and 50 cattle will have to be slaughtered, while at Scorton Road Farm, 135 cattle, 78 sheep and 40 lambs must be destroyed.
In addition, tests carried out on Monday following the slaughter of livestock on suspicion of having foot and mouth at Brough Hill Farm, Bainbridge, near Hawes, proved positive.
Neighbouring farms are being investigated to determine how many more animals may have to be slaughtered as "dangerous contacts".
At Brough Hill Farm, 827 sheep, 600 lambs and 98 cattle were destroyed.
The latest confirmed cases brings the total number in North Yorkshire to 17.
Updated: 15:07 Wednesday, April 18, 2001
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