FARMERS are taking a positive step forward in their fight against the effects of foot-and-mouth by opening a temporary shop in Worcester's CrownGate centre today.

Stallholders selling produce which has not been affected by the disease have suffered a loss of income since farmers' markets were suspended after the outbreak first struck eight weeks ago.

The makeshift market, in the former Cargo shop, in Chapel Walk has been greeted by Ian Hannigton, chairman of organisers Worcestershire Farmers' Markets Group, as "a wonderful idea".

The shop will be open form 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday until the crisis is over.

The venture is the brainchild of the City Centre Forum and Farmers' Market stall holders.

And The Archers actress Pamela Craig - who plays Betty Tucker in the Worcestershire-based Radio 4 serial - was due to open the shop at 1pm today and stay until 2pm to talk to customers and farmers.

She asked for a donation to be made to the Save the Children charity as a fee for her guest appearance.

The farm shop, set up in close liaison with local environmental health officers, will see a range of goods grown or produced locally, from bread, jams, chutneys, cakes, eggs, vegetables, fruits, and plants.

All dairy products, local cheeses and any meat will be supplied by farms not affected by foot-and-mouth.

Advice line

Meanwhile, the Heart of England Tourist Board has launched a foot-and-mouth industry advice line to support tourism businesses during the crisis.

The line, linked to the tourist board's Worcester office, aims to provide businesses with comprehensive information to ensure they have access to all the support available to them during the crisis.

The number is 0800 085 8468 and is open Monday to Friday, from 8am until 6pm.