FARMERS in the region reacted with dismay last night to the Government's decision to retain the controversial 20-day animal movement ban.

Hopes had risen that the crippling restriction - one of the last remaining legacies of last year's foot-and-mouth crisis - would be eased this week.

But those hopes were dashed yesterday when the Government said the ban, imposed to prevent the spread of the disease by allowing time for symptoms to show in infected animals, would stay.

Rob Simpson, regional spokesman for the National Farmers Union, said the decision would have a "serious impact" on the livestock industry.

Farmers in upland areas who rely on the movement of bulls and rams for breeding during the autumn would be particularly badly hit, he said, adding: "The rule is not appropriate when set against the risks.

"There are a number of viable alternatives that have been put forward by the NFU which would not continue to damage the industry in this way."

The Government's stance earned Jim Scudamore, the Government's chief vet, heavy criticism from a senior farming leader who urged him to "think very carefully about his position".

John Thorley, chief executive of the National Sheep Association, warned in a letter to farming minister Lord Whitty that Mr Scudamore had "lost the confidence of a substantial part of the industry".

Mr Thorley said that as it was nine months since the last case of the disease, the 20-day rule should be amended.

The short lambing period and need to move animals for fresh feed meant the rule was causing his industry great harm. Instead he recommended a five-day standstill, as put forward by the Sheep Veterinary Society.

The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said Mr Scudamore's advice was in line with that from Professor David King, the Government's chief scientific advisor, and the cattle and pig associations.