THE farming industry of Wharfedale finally looks as if it is on the road to recovery - but it will still take some time to get back to normal.

Farmers turning up at the first two sales at Wharfedale Farmers Auction Mart, Otley, still appeared to be cautious.

Many farmers who made it to the first two sale days were enthusiastic about getting back together, and were keen to see what prices were being offered for livestock. But many of those present were there not to buy or sell, but as onlookers. Some say the ongoing restrictions by DEFRA have much to do with the slow start - in particular the 20-day rule, which stops farmers moving livestock from their land if they have had any other movements less than 20 days before.

In addition to this, no farmer will feel comfortable until the spectre of foot and mouth disease is long in the past. Fear of a fresh outbreak of the disease, and fear of somehow being involved in spreading it, may yet be holding back farmers who would otherwise now take their opportunity to get back to business.

However, it is encouraging to see that the vast majority of farmers have not given up, and while being cautious, feel they can learn to live with the extra burden of paperwork, and the repetitive ritual of disinfecting boots, and spraying down farm vehicles. Most agree that if they want to see their auction mart open again, they must abide by the rules laid down by DEFRA.

As the risk of foot and mouth lessens, the restrictions may be lifted. Only time will tell where the farming industry will go from here, and what prices next week's sales will fetch.

Farmers struggling to get back to normal might look to the farmers' markets - which will hopefully be up and running in the spring. Not only will they give farmers an outlet to sell their goods, but they will hopefully attract people into the town.