Farm thanks as restrictions ended

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There are now no more restrictions in place in Wales following the foot-and-mouth outbreak in Surrey.

The final restrictions were lifted by Welsh Rural Affairs Minister Elin Jones at 1200 BST, at the same time as her counterpart in England.

The disease broke out at two farms in Surrey in early August, and an official report has now found a leaking drain on a nearby lab was the likely source.

Ms Jones thanked farmers after a "difficult and frustrating" time.

Restrictions have been gradually eased in the weeks since the outbreak was confirmed, six years after the 2001 UK epidemic saw six million animals slaughtered and cost £8bn.

We will be keen to ensure that all appropriate measures are put in place to ensure it does not happen again Rural Affairs Minister Elin Jones

Ms Jones said: "Throughout this time my priority has been to protect Wales and the Welsh farming industry from foot-and-mouth disease.

"Once more I would like to thank farmers for their co-operation during this difficult time, which I know has been frustrating for them.

"I'd also like to thank everyone else who has been involved in the effort over the past month including animal health officers, hauliers, auctioneers and so many others.

"I think everyone in Wales responded in a responsible and proper way to the outbreak."

"I would also reinforce my message to everyone in Wales to support our farmers by buying Welsh produce which we have ensured has continued to be available on supermarket shelves."

A report has found that the outbreak was probably caused by leaking drains, heavy rain and building work.

The Health and Safety Executive said it was not clear which of the two labs at Pirbright, four miles from where the disease was found, were responsible.

Ms Jones said the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) had announced a number of reviews as a result.

"We will be keen to ensure that all appropriate measures are put in place to ensure it does not happen again," she said.