Civic leaders are planning a rescue package to help save a Shropshire abattoir that was closed following the foot and mouth scare.

South Shropshire District Council wants to help Bishop’s Castle Meat, on the Love Lane Industrial Estate, Bishop’s Castle.

Directors said the recent threat of foot and mouth was the “final nail in the coffin” and buyers are being sought for the business.

Now councillors have approved a motion put forward by Councillor Heather Kidd and Councillor Georgie Ellis urging Advantage West Midlands to put together a support package for the site.

Today Councillor Kidd said the abattoir formed a key element in the agricultural economy of the area. She said: “It is the only abattoir in this part of the world that can handle pigs and cattle as well as sheep.

“By keeping it in operation we reduce the stress on the animals caused by transport, cut back on pollution caused by lorries and lessen the risk of the spread of infectious disease.

“On top of all that it is a valued local employer and provides a valued service to local farmers.”

Sixteen jobs are in the balance following the closure.

Philip Dunne, Conservative MP for Ludlow, whose family farm used the abattoir, said that although foot and mouth was the last straw, the operation had been hit by ever-increasing demands from the Meat Hygiene Service and the Food Standards Agency.