SOLDIERS have been drafted in to stop the spread of foot-and-mouth disease after three new cases were confirmed today in the Hexham area of Northumberland.

The Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs confirmed outbreaks at Low Eshells, Hexham; Greyside, Fourstones, Hexham; and Elrington Hall Farm, Haydon Bridge; all in Northumberland.

A spokesman for the National Farmers' Union in North-East England said at least two of the new cases were outside the "blue box" restricted area currently covering the Allendale Valley.

He said: "This is obviously of massive concern because the disease seems to have breached the boundaries set by the Government and this is the worst possible news for Northumberland farmers."

Tonight, rural affairs minister Lord Whitty said he fears there will be more devastation for farmers in Northumberland because of the foot-and-mouth outbreak.

He met soldiers, farmers and Government officials who are working to stem the spread of the disease. Foot-and-mouth has contaminated 16 farms in the county.

At the Newcastle Emergency Disease Control Centre Lord Whitty said: "We are expecting more cases. It is clear that in some cases the disease has been here for two to three weeks.

"That does indicate there probably has been a significant spread already within the valley."

Lord Witty said that about 25,000 sheep and 4,500 cattle had been or will be culled.

He added: "The real danger at this stage of the disease is if a spark goes from here into other areas.

"It is absolutely essential to control all movements of vehicles, personnel and animals."