HEREFORDSHIRE'S census will go ahead, despite the complications of foot-and-mouth.

But the survey, on Sunday, April 29, will take into account the plight of those affected by the epidemic.

Although most householders can expect a visit from a census enumerator, farmers and other rural residents can request a postal form.

Farmers have also been advised to display the name of their farm and telephone number at the entrance to help enumerators make contact and decide on the best way of delivering census forms.

A team of around 250 enumerators has been recruited to begin delivering forms from next Monday.

Census organisers decided to press ahead with the survey after consultation with the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Farmers' Union.

"The council realises that many farmers and others have suffered a devastating loss of livelihood," said Herefordshire Council's census liaison officer Isobel Gibson.

"But it is important as well as a legal requirement."

Anyone concerned about the delivery of their census forms can call Isobel Gibson on 01432 260495 or the Office for National Statistics on 0845 303 2001.