FOOT and mouth restrictions are threatening to ruin agricultural shows - for the third year running.

Of this summer's shows, only Otley is confident that cattle and sheep will be back - although a final decision will be made next month.

Both Askwith and Weeton shows will go ahead but without cattle and sheep, and Arthington Show is still to make a decision.

Although bio-security regulations laid down by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) have been simplified, they are still too tough for many show organisers.

Alison Denman, organiser of Weeton Show, due to take place on July 27, said: "It's a shame because it is a local agricultural show and the longer this goes on the less likely it is that farmers will return with sheep and cattle.

"But of course the show will go on and in place of the restricted animals, Weeton are offering audiences the fun of ferret races and will concentrate more on family and children's entertainment and trade stalls."

Organiser of Arthington Show, on July 20, Sheila Dickenson said: "We are hoping to have cattle and sheep but are still unsure what regulations are in force.

"The show will definitely go ahead with all the normal show jumping classes, dogs and pony classes like last year. We are meeting in March to make a final decision."

Askwith Show, which has not gone ahead for two years since the foot and mouth outbreak in 2001, will be going ahead this year on June 14.

But secretary Adele Marston confirmed there would be no cattle, sheep or goats and that side-shows, horses and dogs, crafts and handicrafts will provide the entertainment instead.

"Lots of the regulations have been lifted so we hope to have a show this year," she added.

Otley Show secretary Janet Raw is busy planning for the event on May 17, which will include livestock.

"I can't really say anything definite about Otley Show until I have received the latest restrictions from DEFRA. We are optimistic that sheep, cattle and pygmy goats will be back this year but until the regulations are received and discussed with the experts I'm not sure.

"I certainly sympathise with the smaller shows. It is hard enough for us to cope with the restrictions financially and practically so it must be very difficult for the smaller shows.

"We will be meeting in mid-March to discuss plans for Otley Show but hopefully this year the show will be bigger and better than ever."

A spokeswoman for DEFRA said bio-security regulations had been simplified but would still be in place for the rest of the year.

Restrictions mean anyone leaving an animal area will have to clean their footwear and clothes if they become infected - in other words if they get faeces on them.

Shows will also have to be licensed by DEFRA and appoint a bio-security officer.