THE introduction of a new communications system for police in North Yorkshire could be delayed because of the foot-and-mouth crisis.

The digital system is due to be introduced across the county in phases, starting from October. However, delays are now thought to be inevitable as engineers are unable to gain access to more than half the county's 82 radio sites.

The project manager, Chris Elliott, said: "The majority of the sites are not actually in infected areas. But in view of the problems and issues around foot-and-mouth, it is perfectly understandable that farmers don't want to give access to their land.

"If the engineers are unable to get to the sites, the work cannot be done."

Originally, the system was due to start going live from September, but that date was put back for technical reasons.

"There is now some uncertainty as to exactly when the new system will go live, but we fully appreciate the reasons for the delay," said Mr Elliott.

"However, I am confident it will be implemented at the earliest possible opportunity."

A spokesman for BT said there were exceptional circumstances and added: "We will be doing everything within our power to minimise the delays and, of course, work is continuing on all the sites to which we do have access."