Scotland-Top Vet to talk to farmers on Bluetongue.

Scotland’s chief veterinary officer is to attend two public meetings with crofters following their concerns about compulsory bluetongue vaccines.

The scheme, introduced in November, has been funded in part by the Scottish Government for its first year.

Island crofters, concerned about the costs involved, have been seeking an exemption.

The meetings on Lewis and Benbecula have been arranged by isles SNP MSP Alasdair Allan.

Last year, farmers north of the border said the disease could still hit them because the vaccine was voluntary in England.

The vaccination scheme means Scotland changed from being a bluetongue-free zone to a protection zone.

Bluetongue is a non-contagious virus spread by a species of midge and is most commonly seen in the late summer and autumn.

All ruminants, such as cattle, goats, deer and sheep, are susceptible, although symptoms are generally most severe in sheep.