If you are concerned about travelling to Scotland because of the Foot & Mouth outbreak in farm animals in certain parts of Britain, please don't be worried.

As of 28 July 2001, Scotland has been officially declared clear of Foot & Mouth Disease. No new cases have been reported in southern Scotland since May.

All access restrictions in Scotland have now being lifted with only a few exceptions - mainly due to the proximity of the outbreak in Cumbria which is across the border with England - check the Scottish Borders Tourist Board web site for details of these limited closures.

Aberdeenshire's Whisky and Castle country is open and we ask that you take the opportunity to come to Migvie House for your holiday break. for any additional information you require.

A few facts:

• The outbreak of the disease in Scotland has been limited to certain parts of southern Scotland - click for official map).
• Please remember that the disease is harmless to humans. You cannot catch Foot & Mouth disease. The outbreak has had no repercussions on the safety of food and drink (meat, eggs, milk, water, etc.) in Britain.
• The disease is common in many countries in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and South America. It affects animals such as pigs, sheep and cattle (cloven-hoofed animals only), not horses. Foot & Mouth disease is not fatal in animals, but it does make them ill.

You can drive around the countryside, visit ancient castles and lovely gardens, explore historic towns and villages, play golf, go shopping for local crafts, or enjoy museums and galleries. As for outdoor activities, there are plenty of places where you can walk and cycle to your heart's content. Scotland need tourists - many of our local communities depend on you - so please support us and visit our beautiful area!

If you are going hiking, etc. please follow the guidelines of The Countryside Comeback Code and avoid proximity to animals. This is designed to minimise the risk of the disease spreading into unaffected areas. Humans cannot catch the disease, but farmers and landowners do worry that there is a slight possibility of visitors carrying the disease on their footwear, clothing or vehicles if they have been close to animals in an infected area, so follow The Countryside Comeback Code.