NO decision will be made on re-opening parts of the Malvern Hills until next week, said Conservators' director Ian Rowat.

An assessment on the risk was being carried out this week by consultants ADAS.

The hills and commons were closed at the start of the outbreak and the assessment follows a 28-day quarantine period advised by MAFF.

Originally, it was hoped the risk assessment would be completed by Wednesday, April 4, with some areas being opened by tomorrow (Saturday).

But Mr Rowat said the assessment was taking longer than expected.

He said: "It's important to get this right."

He said an announcement was expected on Tuesday (April 10).