Walkers are still ignoring the ban on venturing on to footpaths in the countryside - despite clear warnings of the risk of spreading foot and mouth disease.

Oxfordshire Council Council Trading Standards officers, who are responsible for coordinating local measures against the outbreak, said they were receiving many complaints from farmers and landowners that walkers - some with dogs - were ignoring notices prohibiting the use of paths.

Those who ignore the ban risk being prosecuted and fined up to £5,000.

Trading Standards chief David Sibbert said: "I would urge walkers in the countryside to remain vigilant, and act responsibly.

"Please do not ignore any signs about areas being closed. "

Denis Strange, the mayor of Wallingford, also criticised "irresponsible" walkers for flouting foot and mouth restrictions.

He said the warden at the town's Castle Meadow had needed to tape notices back up several times.

But Watlington farmer David Orpwood, Oxfordshire chairman of the National Farmers Union, said irresponsible members of the public were the exception.