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The south west NFU has welcomed belated recognition by the government of farmers' contribution to the nation's food security as the first of the south west's county shows opens at Devon.

But it has warned that there are still big problems besetting the industry.

Regional director Melanie Hall said she was saddened to see the devastating loss of 80 cows - a third of his herd of pedigree Guernseys - from the North Devon farm of Tony Yewdall on the eve of the Show because of suspected bovine TB.

"This would not have happened if this gutless government had taken decisive action to stem this disease through all its sources especially the uncontrolled contamination from badgers - the principal wildlife vector of bovine TB," she said, adding that pressing for a controlled cull of badgers - vaccination not being an option for some years -- in the worst affected areas was the NFU's greatest priority.

The midge-born disease bluetongue was also an economic threat facing livestock farmers and it was imperative that everyone with sheep and cattle should order vaccine and treat their animals as soon as the go-ahead was given in their area.

"There has also been a massive rise in farmers' input costs and returns from the big retailers are still sluggish and sporadic, all areas we are working on," she said.

"But we mustn't lose sight of this being a fine, fun event for farmers and everyone else who cares about our way of life in Devon and that it is themed around the fantastic Year of Food and Farming in Schools which we have been working with the Show and others to ensure it goes forward as a lasting legacy of reconnection between food producers and consumers."

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