RED and yellow signs are to mark the re-opening of the Worcestershire countryside which is set to go ahead after assessments by the Government.

Worcestershire County Council has been told to re-open the majority of footpaths by the Government after they were closed to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth.

The action is a result of recently issued guidance from the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), formerly known as MAFF.

After veterinary risk assessment by DEFRA, the guidance recommends the re-opening of all rights of way and areas of access land except where they cross or lead into a 3km protection zone surrounding infected farms or similar premises.

Following careful consideration and discussion with the regional offices of the NFU and DEFRA, the council is to issue red "path closed" signs on paths remaining closed and yellow signs marking "re-opened" ones.

Ian Bamforth, the council's countryside manager, said the move would provide a valuable boost to businesses which rely on tourism to the countryside.

Eight mobile teams made up of Countryside Service staff will be re-opening the sites during the next two weeks.

"This will enable the public to begin enjoying Worcestershire's countryside again," said Mr Bamforth.

"However, it will also ensure that public paths in existing protection zones remain closed until DEFRA feel it's safe to re-open them.

"On the whole, the public have respected path closure signs and other information given out during the outbreak, and I'd ask they continue to do so.

"It's particularly important the re-enforced path closures are adhered to and the guidance given on re-opening the paths is adhered to."

The guidance states:

- If anyone has handled cattle, sheep, goats or pigs in the last seven days stay off farmland.

- Don't go near, and never touch, handle or feed livestock if you come across them unexpectedly. Move away slowly and if necessary retrace your route.

- Don't take dogs on land where there are cattle.

- Keep dogs on a short lead where there are sheep, goats or pigs.

- Don't leave any waste food or litter.

- Stay on the path and leave all gates as you find them.

- Use disinfectant where provided.

- Start your walk or ride with clean equipment, footwear and clothing.