A NATIONAL strategy is needed to preserve rare breeds of cattle, sheep and other animals from being wiped out by foot-and-mouth disease, says the Country Land and Business Association.

The landowners have called on the Government's veterinary advisers to explain more clearly how they intend to safeguard the bloodlines of rare and ancient sheep, cattle and pigs.

Hereford Cattle Society secretary David Prothero, who has made representation to the Government in a bid to save pedigree herds, says he is worried about some leading herds which are situated not far from confirmed cases. Of the 400 registered Hereford herds in the country, some in Herefordshire have a long history with the Leen herd at Pembridge going back to 1778.

The landowners say that while reaffirming support for the Government's slaughter policy and calling for more resources to be committed to increase its effectiveness, they believe that other ways need to be found to protect rare breeds and other important blood lines.

"As well as providing a priceless gene bank for livestock farming, Britain's native sheep, cattle and pig breeds are very valuable assets for the rural tourism industry.

"The risk to our important herds and flocks is very great and action is needed to ensure they do not disappear for ever."

One herd of pedigree Hereford cattle was slaughtered in Wales despite not being infected.