British government experts are searching for the cause of the latest foot-and-mouth outbreak as Northumberland remains under tight disease restrictions today.
The number of cases rose to 11 last night, with three more farms confirmed as infected in the region, which had been disease-free for months.
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Minister Lord Whitty said it was a "very worrying" situation. "The situation in Northumberland is now our number one priority," he said.
The Newcastle Disease Emergency Control Centre was investigating the outbreak. The centre's divisional veterinary manager yesterday ruled out suggestions the disease could have been spread through Hexham Market.
The new cases come in an area where animal movement restrictions were due to be lifted within weeks. Instead, new restrictions will include the withdrawal of all licences for animal movement and stringent measures at farms, including disinfectant footbaths and sprays.
Police and DEFRA officials will also patrol to ensure that no animals are being moved illegally, and that cleansing and bio-security measures are being used.
PA