THE local branch of the Territorial Army has been called in to help deal with two new outbreaks of the foot and mouth disease.

Territorial army officers from the Lancashire and Cumbria Volunteers will be used to help co-ordinate the speedy and safe disposal of animal carcasses.

Two new outbreaks in the local countryside were discovered this week. These were at Goose Green, Storey Lane, Forton, where 300 sheep and 89 cattle will be slaughtered and Hoggart's Lane Farm in Over Kellett, where 185 sheep and 20 cattle will be killed to contain the disease.

Capt Bill Howorth described the Territorial Army's role as that of "co-ordinator."

He said: "We're sending military liaison officers to each of the affected areas where they will help smooth things over, take some of the weight off the farmers' shoulders and deal with the bureaucracy. They will work with MAFF vets, the Environment Agency and farmers to determine the best course of action for the disposing of livestock. If there are more outbreaks than will be bring in more volunteers."

As a number of attractions re-open to the public, Lancaster City Council is encouraging locals and tourists to make the most of the district this Easter.

The council has set up website with a special foot and mouth disease stop press item on the home page. This gives official

advice on how to deal with the crisis and lists where outbreaks have occurred locally. There is also a direct connection to the website of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF).

The following attractions are open and all visitors are welcome: Heysham Head and St Patrick's Chapel, Morecambe Seafront and the Stone Jetty, Lancaster Castle, Lancaster Priory Church, Lancaster City Museum and Maritime Museum, The Judges' Lodgings (seasonal from early April) Williamson Park, Ashton Memorial and the Butterfly House, Lancaster Leisure Park and GB Antiques, St Peter's RC Cathedral, Salt Ayre Sports Centre, Millennium Bridge, Lancaster Town Hall Tours, The Riverside Park Cycleway and footpath from the Lune Aqueduct through to Morecambe Promenade.

Outdoor events still scheduled to take place include Lancaster Maritime Festival over Easter Weekend, Holker Garden Festival (1st-3rd of June) and variety of events at Williamson Park.