ANOTHER foot and mouth outbreak was today confirmed in East Lancashire within the so called Settle Rectangle.

MAFF confirmed the outbreak at Dockbur Farm, in Sawley, near Clitheroe -- the 17th case in Lancashire.

It comes in the same week as an outbreak in Paythorne and is threatening to bring misery to East Lancashire farmers who thought the crisis was being brought under control.

MAFF have described the situation as "worrying" and there are fears the outbreak could be as bad as it is in Cumbria -- one of the worst hit areas in the country.

The farm -- owned by a Mr Barnes -- will be visited by officials today and all the animals will be slaughtered.