THE exclusion zone around the Solihull farm at the centre of a foot and mouth alert will cause disruption for many people and businesses, but it is necessary.
The disease, if unchecked, can spread rapidly and devastate livestock. The impact on the agricultural economy can be catastrophic.
Fingers crossed that swift action by the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs will prevent any widespread outbreak of the virus.
Our farmers, hit by a cold and wet summer as well as the day-to-day struggle of making ends meet, are already having a tough time.
These are the men and women who ensure our countryside retains its character and work long and hard to put meat, fruit and vegetables on our dinner tables.
Let us hope that the threat of foot and mouth lifts as quickly as it appears.