Catalysts for change are rarely welcomed. The status quo is, after all, under direct assault in some way whether at a personal level or in the wider world.

Foot and mouth disease is the most catastrophic of catalysts yet to be hurled our way, devastating personal lives, other economic activity and shocking the world into shunning us. Change requires courage and courage needs brave moves.

Farmers have been bullied nearly to extinction by the investors - the cold-blooded for whom life is cheap and caring is a word which means cash.

This catalyst for change has increased the numbers of vegetarians and if letters to their MPs demanding a Royal Commission into farming are sent, maybe we will get one and maybe at least one of life's catalysts for change will produce a positive way forward.

-Valerie Paynter, The Drive, Hove