A COURT case, which would have seen two Worcestershire farmers fight to save their cows from being culled, has been postponed for more talks.

Andy and Nicola Morris last month refused to allow officials from Defra and Trading Standards on their Eatons Farm, in Church Lane, Tibberton, to take two of their cows away for slaughter after tests four months ago found they had proved reactive to TB tests.

Following their stand against the authorities Mr Morris was ordered to appear in Worcester Magistrates' Court today.

They will fight to save the cattle and maintain the test that condemned the cows was only 50 per cent accurate.

They are demanding a re-test.

Mrs Morris said the family were making the stand because three animals killed four years ago after similarly failing the test were later found to be clear after a post-mortem.

Tony McDougal, a spokesman for Defra, said: "The case has not been cancelled - it has been postponed for further talks between ourselves and the Morris family.

"Ordinarily, we would remove the cows for slaughter and pay compensation.

Willing

"The Morris's have asked for a private slaughter.

"We are willing for a further short delay in this situation for the Morris's to consider whether they are in a position to be able to carry out the private slaughter

"A letter has been written to the Morris's to that effect."

The legal action against them - if it had been successful - would have made the couple the first farmers in Britain forced to hand over animals for slaughter under new laws.

Mrs Morris said: "I am quite surprised that Defra haven't proceeded with their application for the warrant considering the court has issued two dates for a court appearance."