THE disinfectant being used in the fight to stop the spread of foot-and-mouth is dangerous to wildlife and the environment, conservationists claim.

They are urging its more careful use, following reports of fish dying in polluted watercourses and reduced effectiveness of sewerage works.

Both the Ministry of Agriculture and the Environment Agency have issued guidance on the use of disinfectant to restrict the spread of the disease.

However, the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust fears there is still a danger of rivers, streams, pounds and lakes suffering.

In the last big outbreak, in 1967, several species of fish are believed to have disappeared from the rivers Ure and Ouse, in North Yorkshire, and the roach did not recover for several years.

The trust is concerned that many premises, such as schools, shops and businesses, are putting down disinfectant-filled tubs without being aware of the potential dangers.

"Many people are not aware of just how toxic these concentrated disinfectants can be," said Sylvia Jay, of the trust's otter project.

"Of course farmers should be using disinfectant to prevent foot-and-mouth from spreading. However, unless everyone is careful about how they dispose of it, there is a risk that in protecting one part of the rural economy they endanger another.

"We are urging people to take great care when using the disinfectants, to ensure none of it drains into rivers, or even the smallest drain or ditch.

"We are also asking everyone to avoid phenol-based products and to make sure they dilute disinfectants to the correct concentration.

"With river life and otters recovering from years of pollution, we don't want to follow the tragedy of foot-and-mouth with another one for the environment."

Trust spokesman Peter Bowler said: "Maff and the Environment Agency have been putting out advice about how to create the baths, to stop the disinfectant running off.

"But, on my travels around the region, I have seen very few that actually comply with that advice.

"However, the threat to the environment is real and we urge everyone to do what they can to prevent it getting worse."