They told me a local cattle farmer had a cow which had tested positive for bluetongue. I rang the farmer to find out if there was anything I could do.

It turned out they hadn't told him about the diagnosis. How can we have any faith in a Government department which acts in this way?

Spare a thought for our livestock farmers. Due to foot-and-mouth restrictions, farmers must continue to feed animals they would sooner have sold by now, while paying record high prices for animal feed.

And all because a Government laboratory cut corners on
bio-security and allowed the foot-and-mouth virus to get out. Farmers have every right to be deeply angry.

Things are especially difficult for local pig farmers, but there is something everyone can do to help. Make absolutely sure you are buying British bacon, pork and sausages.

Silver Surfers

I dropped in to Diss Library last week to talk to a group of over 65s who were busily learning how to use the internet.

Surf's Up is a series of four IT taster sessions available in 23 Norfolk Libraries over the county and they are proving very popular.
The November series in Diss is fully booked but they are hoping to hold more sessions in the New Year.

Led by Librarian Sally Blows, the sessions are fun as well as giving older people the confidence to use a computer, shop on-line or surf the web for information.

So, if you want to become a silver surfer, get your name down at Diss Library for one of these courses.

SNAP

I AM all for Safer Neighbourhood Action Panels (SNAP). They give you the chance to get something done about the problems you face locally.
A number of panels have been set up across south Norfolk including Diss and Harleston.

Panel representatives come from a broad section including the police, local, district and county councils, schools, community workers and so on. Public meetings are held on a three-monthly basis for you to air your concerns on issues such as vandalism, anti-social behaviour, lack of public transport or speeding and parking.

The next meeting in Diss is at the end of November and in Harleston in January. Look out for details in future editions of the Diss Express.