THE famous purple heather displays on the North York Moors could become a thing of the past, a senior councillor has warned.

County councillor Herbert Tindall, deputy chairman of the National Park Authority, says more should be done to encourage farmers to graze their sheep on the land.

Trees, bracken and scrub brush are kept in check by the animals.

But Coun Tindall says a drop in the number of flocks will have far reaching consequences for the environment.

He said: "If we lose too many then the land will become covered with brushwood."

Coun Tindall said the problem was made worse by the effects of the foot and mouth epidemic.

"Some flocks were taken out in the Danby area because of foot and mouth and now the remaining flocks are moving up to eight miles further on, making it difficult for stockmen to check on them."

He believes graziers should be given more of a financial incentive to keep their sheep on the moors to manage the unique environment.

He said: "I think it's time that the Government woke up to what will happen if or when the sheep disappear off the moors."

Andrew Windrum, conservation officer at English Nature, said: "We are conscious of the fact that if you do reduce the number of sheep grazing on the moors there can be some scrub invasion.

"They are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a European special area of conservation because they are so important."

He added: "We are putting a lot of time, effort and resources into encouraging farms and estates to continue their management.

"We have to get this at the right levels to ensure we have the moorland for future generation to enjoy."

Updated: 12:05 Saturday, March 16, 2002