NORTH YORKSHIRE should work towards a prosperous future after it was officially declared free of foot and mouth disease.

That was the message from senior North Yorkshire County Council figures as Government vets lifted restrictions on farms across the county.

Council leader Councillor John Weighell said: "After all the depressing news we have had over the last year, this is a wonderful start to the New Year.

"I know this declaration will mean a lot to the farming community and the tourist industry."

The council's chief executive, Jeremy Walker, said: "It's now time for everyone involved in agriculture and tourism to look to the future and to try and build a viable and prosperous community for 2002.

"Although we have been declared disease free, we will not be complacent. There is a need for continuing vigilance and strict bio-security to ensure foot and mouth is completely eradicated."

He paid tribute to those who had fought the disease in North Yorkshire, which was one of the worst affected areas, with 134 cases between March and August 18, last year.

He pledged that the council would continue to help those affected by the outbreak.

Updated: 09:55 Thursday, January 03, 2002