The devastation of a Pembrokeshire dairy herd by bovine TB underlines the need for urgent action to control the disease, says Preseli Pembrokeshire Assembly Member Paul Davies.

The Daioni herd based at Boncath has been almost entirely slaughtered after testing positive for the disease.

"This case has made the headlines because Daioni is such a well-known brand," said Mr Davies.

"Tragically they have lost nearly the whole herd, 325 cows and 230 youngstock.

"Their flavoured milk drinks are still in in production using milk from other suppliers and the company has stressed that there has been no risk at any time to consumers.

"However, the killing of cows because of TB is a scenario which is being repeated all over Wales.

"The Welsh Assembly Government has been talking for years about taking action but still we have not seen the start of a test cull of wildlife to try to control the disease.

"The Government must stop dithering and get this test underway immediately," Mr Davies added. "The scenario at Trioni is being repeated all over Wales, particularly in high milk producing areas like Pembrokeshire. Wales must lead the way in controlling this problem."

Trioni's boss, farmer Laurence Harries, has now issued an open invitation to his farm near Boncath to any societies and trusts concerned with the countryside.

"I want a frank discussion about the issues that have arisen during the past few weeks," he said.

"We do need to restock but feel that unless this disease is eradicated from all our buildings and surrounding land then it will be a costly and pointless exercise which will eventually result in the same position as we find ourselves in now, which is totally unacceptable for all concerned.

"All those persons who feel that they could contribute in a constructive manner in an attempt to resolve these issues could please contact me on laurence@trioni.com giving their details and their position within those bodies they represent."