Bluetongue advice issued

FARMERS in the Lothians have been tentatively warned about a potentially devastating disease.

With the livestock sales season approaching, measures are being taken across England to prevent Bluetongue – an easily spread disease affecting mainly sheep.

While there is no suggestion that the protection zone will be extended north of the border following last year's outbreak, farmers are being warned to be careful when sourcing stock from England and Wales.

Any outbreak would have a massive impact on the area's agricultural economy.