LIFE for farmers in Somerset began to return to normal this week after the ban on movement restrictions and livestock markets was lifted. The farming industry came to a standstill in August when foot and mouth disease was discovered at a farm in Surrey. I

LIFE for farmers in Somerset began to return to normal this week after the ban on movement restrictions and livestock markets was lifted.The farming industry came to a standstill in August when foot and mouth disease was discovered at a farm in Surrey.In September the country was declared disease-free, but just days later a new outbreak was found in Surrey and the industry was thrown into chaos.For almost three months, farmers have been unable to sell their animals in livestock markets, export them or move them between fields.Exports were resumed on October 12 and the National Farmers' Union (NFU) is hoping the latest relaxation of movement controls will help the struggling industry to get back on its feet.NFU president Peter Kendall said the moves would provide a much-needed boost for livestock farmers, who have faced difficult operating conditions as well as rock-bottom prices for their stock.