THE North York Moors National Park Authority is calling for extra vigilance over Easter in the wake of a new outbreak at Ruswarp close to the north eastern boundary of the Park.

The new outbreak means that part of the north eastern corner of the National Park has been defined as an infected area by MAFF.

Within a 10km radius of the confirmed case at Ashes Farm, precautionary measures are being strengthened and additional precautions brought in to contain the potential spread of the disease in the Esk Valley and along the coast.

Park chief executive Andy Wilson said: "We want to express deep sympathy for the farmers affected by the Ruswarp outbreak. The National Park Authority is very concerned about this recent development and is worried about the potential threat to farming livelihoods throughout the North York Moors and the knock-on effects in the tourism industry."

He added: "The National Park Authority is acting rigorously to protect the farming community and the unique landscapes they maintain and vigorously to promote the places where it is safe for people to visit."

The park authority is helping communities within the infected area to put down extra disinfection mats and temporary cattle grids. Advice and help is being given to local groups who want to produce guidance for visitors; the Authority is also looking into the feasibility of separating "hefted" hill flocks. These additional measures will help minimise the risk of spreading the disease across the National Park.

North Yorkshire County Council's decision not to reopen the main Public Rights of Way network in the park was also welcomed. Ninety-four per cent of access routes in the National Park cross farmed land and moorland areas. These routes, in the light of the Ruswarp case, will remain closed until further notice.

Bill Breakell, tourism and transport officer, said: "There is still plenty to see and do with many attractions and tourism businesses, shops, cafs, pubs and restaurants open as usual. The remoter pubs, tearooms and villages are suffering as a result of people unnecessarily staying away.

"Over the Easter holidays we will continue to push the vital message that people can still enjoy the special qualities of the North York Moors, providing they respect the precautionary measures in place."

Up to the minute advice can be accessed in a number of ways:

Call the Sutton Bank National Park Centre on 01845 597426, seven days a week, 10am-5pm;

Call The Moors Centre on 01287 660654, seven days a week, 10am-5pm;

Visit the National Park website at www.northyorkmoors-npa.gov.uk.

Updated: 11:05 Friday, April 13, 2001