SIR — I wish to thank all those who have supported the campaign by Living Exmoor and myself.
Initially our enthusiasm was fuelled by the inept handling of the crisis by relevant government bodies since the crisis began and the apparent lack of any preventative measures to keep foot and mouth disease out of Exmoor.
The immediate downturn in trade, especially in the moorland areas, due to the rightly self-imposed ban on all hunting and the lack of visitors instigated major hardship to all types of business.
Equally horrifying was seeing and hearing of the heartbreak brought to the families in infected areas. Lifetimes and generations of work, and a way of life, have been wiped out, and I am sure the devastation is beyond the comprehension of most, especially in the non-rural areas.
Living Exmoor has evolved through like-minded people wishing to see the survival and economic upturn of Exmoor as we know it. We hope to help all business, fieldsports, farming, tourism and the community.
The heckling of the Prime Minister was not planned but we hope it will raise the profile of Exmoor and get physical and financial help. Our specific request is for immediate help with installation of power washing facilities, disinfecting and information sites to enable safe movement in and out of the area.
I must thank the volunteers who have given so much time and energy at these sites. Well done, you are a credit to our community. If you wish to offer help please phone the helpline at Exmoor House, Dulverton (01398 322322).
Also our thanks to the Exmoor National Park Authority and those at the West Somerset District council for their tireless support. It is an uphill struggle fighting the bureaucracy.
Again many thanks for all the letters and phone calls of support and encouragement.
Judy Carless,
Tarr Farm,
Tarr Steps.