Cloven hoofed lurgie halts cycling

The British Cycling Federation has been advised by the Ministry of

Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to ask all cyclists to avoid trips to the

countryside in any form (on foot, on bike or by car) wherever possible, even

if the intended journey is restricted to roads.

MAFF has pointed out that this is a request and that they cannot currently enforce it in any way.

However, in view of the seriousness of the situation, the British Cycling

Federation urges all cyclists to follow MAFFs advice.

The BCF says the implications of the current Foot and Mouth outbreak are "serious for cycling in virtually every form and for cycle sport in particular. With the Road and

Mountain bike seasons getting underway, we are monitoring the situation very

carefully and will be in regular touch with MAFF."

MAFF has a Foot and Mouth helpline, 0845 050 4141.