MORE rights of way in the North-East countryside are to be reopened as the region continues to recover from last year's foot-and-mouth crisis - although this picture could change as tests continued at the end of the week on two suspected sheep near Thirsk..

A new survey by Defra showed most paths could now be opened to the public, even if they cross farms still classified as restricted.

Keith Raine, regional operations director at the Newcastle disease control centre, said: "This can only be positive for the North-East. It has not only been farmers who have suffered throughout the last year.

"Open footpaths should encourage visitors back to the countryside and help our local communities.

"We do ask that visitors to the countryside are considerate and follow our guidelines. The risk of walkers and riders spreading foot-and-mouth are minimal as long as sensible precautions are followed."

Anyone walking in the countryside is asked to observe the following precautions:

l Start your walk wearing clean footwear and clothing.

l Do not approach, touch or handle livestock.

l Keep dogs on short leads while near livestock.

l Take home any waste, including food.

l Use any disinfectant foot-pads or baths that the landowner provides.

Paths that cross farm yards or farm buildings remain closed