PROPOSED European measures designed to reduce water pollution are said to be alarming farmers throughout Worcestershire and Herefordshire.

David Price, the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) regional director responsible for the two counties, has expressed concern that livestock farmers may find plans to expand Nitrate Vulnerable Zones the last straw.

The move is expected to put restrictions on the use of cow muck for fertiliser if it is adopted next year.

It means farmers will need to store it in watertight containers for three months of the year.

Millions of pounds would need to be spent on storage facilities, at a cost of about £35,000 for each unit, and more transport would be required to move slurry to areas without restrictions.

The CLA is organising a meeting in Hereford on January 28, where farmers can meet to air concerns and prepare a plan of action.