DEVON and Cornwall farmers could be set for support following confirmation that DEFRA is exploring financial help for those facing bluetongue.

For a number of weeks, farmers across the region have been battling growing cases of bluetongue within their livestock.

Bluetongue is a non-contagious viral disease affecting domestic and wild ruminants, transmitted by biting midges. It does not affect people or food safety, but outbreaks can result in prolonged and significant challenges at farm level, as the disease is difficult to contain.

For farmers, much concern has come from the risk of fatalities among animals. On top of this, the impact of the disease is being felt financially, with the cost of vaccination, the potential loss of livestock, and the subsequent disposal costs.

Farming Minister Stephen Morgan MP has confirmed in parliament that farmers could soon receive financial support from DEFRA (Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs).

The news comes after North Cornwall MP Ben Maguire pressed the Farming Minister in the House of Commons for urgent financial support for farmers facing crippling livestock disposal costs.

In response, the Minister confirmed “DEFRA is now looking at financial support options”.

Commenting, Ben Maguire MP said: "My North Cornwall farmers have had a summer from absolute hell, with the bluetongue disease devastating herds on top of a crushing drought.

"It's not right that on top of losing their animals, farmers are then hit with huge disposal costs.

“I'm glad the Minister is now looking at financial support following my challenge in the House of Commons, and I'll be holding them to it."

South Devon MP Caroline Voaden recently called on the Prime Minister to do more to combat climate change, as she said Devon’s farmers are being “pushed to the limit” by a combination of drought and disease.