A NEW sheep movement reporting system came into effect on Tuesday.

But the National Sheep Association (NSA) told farmers not to panic as the compulsory changes were slight and the more complicated changes optional.

The changes are due to a new electronic database being introduced by Defra for reporting sheep movements in England.

It is now compulsory for auction markets, collection centres and abattoirs to report electronically but, if they prefer, farmers can still stick to the paper system.

Joanna Briggs, NSA communications manager, said the only real change is that the old AML1 form has been replaced with a new ARAMS1 form.

She said: “The ARAMS1 is virtually identical so you should have no problem filling it out, but be aware that you need to post or fax it, not to your local authority, but to SouthWestern, the company delivering the new electronic database on behalf of Defra.

“Contact details are on the new form, which you can pick up from markets, abattoirs, collection/ assembly centres, local authorities and shows.”

If an error is made on the ARAMS1 form, the movement will still go ahead but South- Western will contact the farmer to remedy it and only refer it to the local authority as a last resort.

Mrs Briggs said: “NSA understands such a referral will not automatically trigger a cross compliance penalty.”

For guidance, visit arams.co.uk or ring 08445- 730137 from Monday to Saturday, 8am-8pm. Members can contact NSA on 01684-892661 or see nationalsheep.org.uk.