Show goes ahead without livestock

The show will go ahead without cows, sheep, pigs and goats

The Anglesey County Show will go ahead but without cattle, sheep, pigs and goats even if movement restrictions on livestock are lifted.

Animal movements throughout the UK were banned after foot-and-mouth was discovered at a Surrey farm on Friday.

Organisers say in light of the effects of the 2001 outbreak, it would be "irresponsible" to carry on with the animals, even if the ban has ended.

Horses and other animals can attend and bio security measures will be in place.

Organisers of the show - which takes place on 14-15 August at the Anglesey Agricultural Showground and attracts more than 59,000 - have said there will still be plenty going on for visitors to enjoy.

"The show is going ahead without the cattle, sheep, pigs, goals even though restrictions may be lifted by the end of the week," said Aled Hughes, show administrator.

Every horse lorry will have to pass over a bio security point, we are having disinfecting mats on ground Aled Hughes, show administrator

"The show is so big, there are so many other things for people to come along for. We envisage a successful show in any case."

More than 1,000 horses are expected to be brought to the show which will also feature show jumping, poultry, rabbits, pigeons and an entertainment marquee.

They had feared they were taking the decision to ban cattle, sheep, pigs, and goats too early, but felt it was necessary to let the exhibitors know - a process that was beginning on Monday.

Bio security measures that would have automatically have been in place for pigs, sheep, cattle and goats, will still be used as a precaution.

Mr Hughes said: "Every horse lorry will have to pass over a bio security point, we are having disinfecting mats on ground."

A further measure being considered is mats for those people coming into the show through the pay booths.

During in the 2001 foot-and-mouth outbreak, major events were cancelled including the Anglesey County Show and the Royal Welsh Show.