Where can I visit in the countryside during the Foot and Mouth outbreak

asks Esme Harrison

A.� As the Foot and Mouth epidemic speads, the daily tally of infected areas is rising at an alarming rate, so it is difficult to pinpoint any specific place in the countryside that is open today as it may be closed by the end of the week. But there is help at hand - there are several governmental and non-governmental websites that are updated on a daily basis which provide current and accurate information. Some of the best ones are:

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http://www.countryside.gov.uk - the Countryside Agency's site is one of the best on the subject, with an excellent regional map which indicates, via colour coding, exactly where rights of way (ROW) are closed entirely and where some access is permitted.

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http://maff.gov.org/animalh/diseases/fmd/default.htm - Comprehensive Ministry of Agriculture site

with a helpline, list of infected premises and information on welfare and disposal of animals.

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http://wildlife-countryside.detr.gov.uk/ruraltf - Government site providing the official line on how to avoid spreading the disease.

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http://www.co-ordination.gov.uk - provides links�on all aspects of the foot and mouth outbreak.

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http://englishtourism.org.uk - offers advice for tourists wishing to visit the countryside and a helpline - 0870 2415659.

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http://nationaltrust.org.uk - the National Trust plans to open 200 of its closed sites by Easter, this site keeps you updated on where you can visit.

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http://www.britishwaterways.co.uk - emailed update on the status of canals and tow paths.

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http://www.ramblers.org.uk - Ramblers Association sites gives updates on access to ROW and offers an excellent section on suggested Urban walks in areas such as Bath, Glasgow, the Lake District, Pembrokeshire and York.

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Q. Where would you recommend visiting over Easter

A.� If you are over worried about enduring the holiday traffic only to find public access denied when you reach your destination it is best to concentrate on urban areas. Windsor, Bath, Oxford, Edinburgh, Cambridge, Brighton and York - not to mention London - are all great weekend destinations with museums, monuments, art galleries and other leisure activities all open. Sea life centres, ice skating, swimming and the beaches at coastal resorts are also all safe bets. Regional art galleries like the Tate in St Ives and the Lowry Centre at Salford Quays or city developments like the Albert Dock in Liverpool are other popular alternatives.

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Q.� What is the best way to avoid spreading foot and mouth when visiting the countryside

A.� The best way to avoid contributing to the spread of the disease is to follow the government's guidelines outlined by its chief vet, Jim Scudamore. In a nutshell, this is to avoid all contact with susceptible livestock, farm premises and crossing land where livestock are grazing or kept. In addition, you are not advised to use closed footpaths, leave wastefood in open countryside or farmland or let your dog off its lead as it can cause animal movement.

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Q.� Would it be foolish to camp in the countryside at the moment

A.� Some unaffected areas will allow camping, but it is best to check with the local tourist board first. The government has recommended staying in permanent accommodation eg, hotels or guest houses where possible. Driving, walking and cycling on tarmac roads�are also permitted.

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If you have any questions or comments on visiting the countryside click here

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By Karen Anderson