Pubs across the country will be anxiously hoping news of a new foot and mouth outbreak does not affect business, according to the Morning Advertiser.
A spokesman for the British Hospitality Association (BHA) told the newspaper today that he was pleased that the government had acted quickly but was concerned that the next fortnight would be crucial.
"I have spoken to our members in the area and to date, trade has not been affected … our fingers will be crossed for the next two weeks," he said.
The article follows news this week that a second farm in the Pirbright and Guildford area has reported contaminated livestock and raised concern that the disease could be spreading.
Kate Pettem of small business advisors Bridgwell Securities told the Independent today that pubs had been hit hard by foot and mouth in 2001 and that news of another outbreak "may well upset the already nervous pub stocks".
