Devon faces all-clear delay

Antibodies have been found in another Devon flock

The lifting of current foot-and-mouth restrictions in Devon is likely to be delayed after fresh evidence of the disease was found.

Virus antibodies have been found in a flock of sheep near Exbourne, in mid-Devon.

The National Farmers' Union (NFU) says the discovery is likely to delay lifting of the county's "at-risk" status - even if the animals are found to be healthy.

The union had hoped for the announcement next Monday.

It now believes full disease-free status will be delayed until the week starting 12 November.

Slaughter decision

The current restrictions prevent sheep being taken outside the county.

The Exbourne flock is to be re-tested before a decision is made over whether to slaughter.

The presence of antibodies in blood does not necessarily mean the animals have foot-and-mouth disease.