FARMERS have called on the Government to lift livestock restrictions before the rural economy "starts to die".

The calls come as the agricultural industry looks for ways of doing business, despite the movement ban following foot-and-mouth outbreaks in Surrey.

Auction marts across the region are attempting to strike deals between sheep farmers and buyers.

No livestock can be moved because of the outbreak, unless to slaughter. However, it is hoped arrangements can be made so that stock can be sold as soon as the movement restrictions are lifted.

In Hawes, North Yorkshire, yesterday, office staff were fielding a steady stream of calls from farmers looking for outlets for their sheep. And in Hexham, Northumberland, a virtual auction was held this week, with buyers sent digital pictures of stock.

Angus Collingwood-Cameron, North-East director of the Country Land and Business Association, said: "The industry is aware that it cannot rely on outside help, so it is already demonstrating its determination to come through this latest outbreak by helping itself."

Hawes mart director Andrew Pratt said: "It's a critical time. There are hundreds of thousands of lambs on these hills, which are currently stranded. We need these movements to come sooner rather than later."

Hawes farmer Bobby Blades, who has 1,300 breeding ewes, fears for the future of his industry.

He said: "Farming is the backbone of life in these dales. If farming collapses the whole rural economy will start to die."