A HORSE owner says he has been unable to obtain advice from the Ministry of Agriculture on how to feed his animals.
The man, who does not want to be named, keeps four horses in fields near the A68 at Burtree, near Darlington.
He usually gets his feed from a farmer at Great Burdon, but is being cautious, despite not being affected by the outbreak.
The man phoned the ministry and was directed to an advice line, but was passed on to several offices. Eventually, he gave up.
He said: "I don't want to be fetching diseases from one area to another - I'm trying to be responsible, but they are keeping me in the dark, like a mushroom."
A spokeswoman for the ministry said: "I would say this man would have no problems, provided the farmer has disinfectant placed at the gate."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article