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Foot and Mouth disease advice

In light of the recent reports of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Bluetongue disease in the UK, we have produced some guidance to help you when you are visiting Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve or other farmland in Hastings.

All countryside areas in Hastings and St Leonards are open as usual and no footpaths have been closed.

There is no risk to public or animal health at the moment.  The outbreaks for FMD have been limited to an area in Surrey and Bluetongue to an area in the East of England.

If there are any changes in the status of this current outbreak we will provide further information and advice as and when required.

 Areas of Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve are used for farming, so there may be concerns about entering this area during the outbreak.  There is no need to avoid the Nature Reserve or other countryside areas.  Please be aware, however, that farmers may increase their biosecurity to protect their animals, e.g. disinfectant pads.

During the outbreaks please ensure you use the designated paths and avoid direct contact with livestock and do not let dogs into areas where they may come into contact with animals.

If FMD were to spread across the country then stricter measures may have to be put in place, but at the moment the countryside is open.  However, do try to understand farmers' needs to keep their livestock safe and use disinfectant facilities if they are present.

Visit the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs website for more information about Foot and Mouth and Bluetongue disease.

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