There is little that anyone can do now to prevent the devastation that will be wreaked on farmers in the Skipton, Settle and now Clitheroe areas following the spread of the latest outbreak of foot-and-mouth.

But it isn't just the farmers who are affected. All aspects of country life are being hit as huge swathes of countryside are ruled out of bounds for holidaymakers generally and walkers in particular.

Businesses such as holiday cottages, B&Bs and camp sites, heavily dependent on seasonal income, are suffering already from a serious loss of income. If the crisis drags on into the autumn, it is hard to see what can be done to keep many of them alive.

It will require a substantial input from the Government in terms of compensation to try to ameliorate the effects of the worst crisis in the countryside for almost 40 years. However, there are ways in which individuals can help, too.

While holidays in areas such as the Yorkshire Dales will be limited because of lack of access to the fields and footpaths, there are still many charming country pubs and attractive villages to see.

But perhaps the biggest gesture of solidarity that local people can show to small businesses in the area is to continue to take days out in towns like Skipton and Settle, spending cash on afternoon tea, browsing around the gift shops and enjoying those tourist attractions which remain open for the charming places they are.

Don't abandon the countryside. Keep on visiting it to support those who will be left to pick up the pieces when this nightmare is finally over.