Organisers of agricultural shows in Wales this year must apply for licences if they plan to hold classes which might include foot and mouth disease susceptible animals, the Welsh Assemblys Agriculture and Rural Affairs Department (ARAD) has advised.

Shows are being allowed to resume this year, under the Animal Gatherings Order (Wales) 2002, introduced by the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Welsh Assembly in February, but all events including cattle, sheep, pigs and goats - must be licensed.

Grass sites used by animals and livestock vehicles at shows must be free of grazing susceptible livestock for 28 days before and after a show. Show organisers must prepare a standard operating plan which includes details on biosecurity and disease control contingencies, supported with a location map and relevant records. A series of workshops will be held this month to help show officials with documentation and give advice.

Animals may move to and from shows, and from show to show, without triggering a 20 day standstill, provided they are individually identified and are isolated from other animals on their premises of origin. This isolation must be in DEFRA approved facilities, which reflect existing protocols, biosecurity requirements and herd health rules. Owners wishing to seek approval of their premises for an on-farm isolation unit will need to apply to their local Animal Health Division office.

Show organisers are advised to contact the Assemblys foot and mouth centre on 029 20326165 as soon as possible, to notify them of their event, and for further information on licensing arrangements.