FARMERS in Ryedale have been illegally posting "no entry" signs on footpaths open to the public during the foot and mouth crisis.

Trading Standards officers this week warned the farmers, who have not been named, that they face a £5,000 fine if they try to prevent walkers using the paths.

The warning won the support of the North Yorkshire Rambling Association, but local farmers leaders condemned the fines threat as heavy-handed.

Robin Mair, from the foot and mouth information desk at North Yorkshire County Council, said there had been around six incidents in the last few days.

"A lot of footpaths have been reopened and these are indicated with a green notice at the entrance to the path," he said.

"Some farmers in the Malton area have tried to prevent walkers using these paths by replacing the green signs with red notices declaring the footpaths closed.

"We would like to remind farmers that it is an offence to put up a sign without proper authority. Those found guilty of doing so could face a fine of up to £5,000."

He added: "Farmers are allowed to apply for exemptions which means some footpaths will remain closed."

Robert Hicks, chairman of the Malton branch of the NFU, said using a fine was heavy-handed.

"Farmers are stressed about the current situation and they don't want people coming anywhere near their livestock," he said.

"They have had this hanging over them and it is understandable some have reacted in this way."

Updated: 09:26 Thursday, June 28, 2001