A FARMER whose livestock were slaughtered after being infected with foot-and-mouth claims MAFF has made a mess of the clear-up operation.

Ian Rodenhurst, who helps his father at Evelench Farm, Tibberton, has described a field where cattle were burned as being in a terrible state.

More than 40 cattle were burned in their field at Crowle on Easter Sunday, April 15.

Two weeks later, MAFF said the field was being re-instated. But when Mr Rodenhurst inspected the land, he was shocked at his discovery.

"We found carcase parts where the fire was and across the field," said the 32-year-old. "I'm very angry about it. When they finish burning they should bury whatever is left. A fox could take the disease to other farms."

Around 450 cattle were killed at the farm after the disease was confirmed on Sunday, April 8.

"It's been a disaster since day one," said Mr Rodenhurst. "They shot the cattle at the farm in front of the kitchen window where my mum could see them.

"And it took them 10 days before they collected them for rendering.

"We thought everything had been done to reinstate the field but it's a terrible mess. We told them we wouldn't accept it and they haven't got back to us.

"I've even called the Prime Minister's secretary about it."

A MAFF spokeswoman said: "Officials are in discussion with Mr Rodenhurst asking for his co-operation to enable the cleansing and disinfection of his farm to go ahead in the interests of the farming community."