Cornish show cancels livestock classes over bluetongue fears

Cattle and sheep classes have been cancelled at the 103^rd Liskeard Prime Stock Show on Saturday 2^nd November. 

Show organisers said they hoped visitors would still attend to support the event, with lots of other classes to enter for hay, silage, grain, roots vegetables, pumpkins and the Country Craft and Community Competitions.

Commenting, Cornwall councillor Jane Pascoe is quoted by BBC News as saying the restrictions are a “big disappointment” for farmers.

“It’s an important event on the agricultural calendar,” she continued. “Farmers look forward to the prime stock shows.

“Because it’s a good social event we’re going to continue and have the exhibits and demonstrations and people talking – there’s all sorts going on.”

READ MORE: 175th English Winter Fair cancelled due to concerns over bluetongue spread

Latest situation 

There have now been over 150 cases of bluetongue serotype 3, and the restriction zone now covers most of the east, and parts of north eastern England and the East Midlands.  

A dozen cases of BTV-3 have been detected outside the current restricted zone, including in Cornwall. 

Other areas with confirmed cases are: Bath and North East Somerset (BANES), Shropshire, Cheshire, Cumbria, Anglesey, Gwynedd, and North Yorkshire.

The animals were moved to these premises from areas where disease is now known to be circulating – before restrictions were put in place.

BTV-3 vaccines are now available to farmers across England without applying for a general licence.

Farmers looking to use the vaccine are advised to speak to their vet.

If you suspect bluetongue, you must report it immediately by calling 03000 200 301 in England, 03003 038 268 in Wales or your local Field Services Office in Scotland.  

Support and resources are also available on the bluetongue page of the Ruminant Health & Welfare Group’s website.

Read more livestock news.