51AVÊÓÆµ

UK foot-and-mouth disease - 25 years on: "It was a cruel and catastrophic loss still felt a generation on"

Farming communities demonstrated strength and resilience to overcome the foot-and-mouth crisis and its aftermath. But have lessons been learnt 25 years on?

Chris Brayford
clock • 4 min read
"We need to speak prophetically to Government and policy makers about the real concern of a repeat epidemic. After 25 years and numerous reports and ongoing research, we are still as vulnerable and susceptible today as a generation ago. Every successive Government has failed to put in place the safeguards needed."
Image:

"We need to speak prophetically to Government and policy makers about the real concern of a repeat epidemic. After 25 years and numerous reports and ongoing research, we are still as vulnerable and susceptible today as a generation ago. Every successive Government has failed to put in place the safeguards needed."

Memories of the 2001 UK foot-and-mouth crisis still lingers clearly in farmers' minds 25 years on. The pain and trauma of the events that unfolded left an imprint on the British countryside which will...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

Ìý

More on 51AVÊÓÆµLife

Vinnie Jones says harvest is his favourite time of year

Vinnie Jones says harvest is his favourite time of year

The actor, former footballer and farming champion showcases rural life through his show Vinnie Jones in the Country

Mia Willemsen
clock 28 July 2026 • 3 min read
Rise in farming families obtaining protection insurance in case of injury

Rise in farming families obtaining protection insurance in case of injury

Following recent stark reminders of how dangerous the farming profession can be, more farmers have begun protecting themselves and their families through insurance

Mia Willemsen
clock 28 July 2026 • 3 min read
Fundraiser to trek 209 miles across Iceland for the Farming Community Network

Fundraiser to trek 209 miles across Iceland for the Farming Community Network

73-year-old Sam Balsdon will take on the journey to highlight the importance of charities like FCN for the farming sector

Mia Willemsen
clock 27 July 2026 • 1 min read