SIX farms in Cheshire and one in Warrington are still subject to Form D notices for being a "high risk" of having the foot-and-mouth infection.

These are farms which have had possible contacts with infected animals. Clinic observations to date on these animals, including pigs at Wetgate Farm in Lymm, have shown no signs of infection.

They have been put under observation by the Ministry of Agriculture (MAFF) as a precautionary measure and are subject to significant restrictions on animal movement and access to them as a precaution.

Ten of Warrington's livestock farmers have applied for a special licence to send animals for slaughter.

In general, livestock movements are restricted until at least midnight on March 16, putting many of the town's farmers under tremendous pressure.

But MAFF is now authorising livestock farms in Warrington to send animals through the licence issued on a written declaration by the farmer. Rigorous disinfection of vehicles must take place before the animals are transported.

Warrington Borough Council is in daily contact with MAFF with information and advice on control measures.

As a precautionary measure certain footpaths and rights of way including those around Wetgate Farm and part of the Trans Pennine Trail have been closed by the council to help prevent the spread under the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (Amendment) Order 2001 which came into force on February 27.