It does restrict how and where animals can be transported, but the county-wide designation does make it easier to send them to market locally and compete at shows within Lincolnshire.

But while access to Louth Cattle Market is eased, it does mean that trade has to stop with markets in Newark and Melton Mowbray.

Previously Louth market was restricted to handling sales within the zone that up until Monday covered only East Lindsey.

The National Farmers Union and Country Landowners Association are now urging all livestock keepers in the area to contact their vet for supplies of the bluetongue vaccine to protect their flocks and herds.

NFU policy adviser for the region, Simon Fisher, said that the zone had to be extended to cover the county in order for vaccines to be given out and future extensions will eventually cover the entire East Midlands region over coming weeks.

It is too early to say what the implications of these new restrictions will be for the Lincolnshire Show in June although entries in the livestock section have been strong and it encourages Lincolnshire farmers to focus their energies locally.

Chief executive Helen Houghton said, “We will be monitoring developments on a daily basis between now and the show as any future zone changes will be beneficial for exhibitors who are currently unable to attend.”

l Are you affected by these changes, if so share your experiences.

Email the editor : jason.hippisley@jpress.co.uk.