THE government has launched a scheme to vaccinate badgers againt bovine tb in a bid to tackle the disease.

It is hoped that the vaccinations will stop the spread of TB from areas in the South West and West Midlands.

Funding of up to 50% will be offered to groups for the cost of the vaccinations.

The decision comes as the start date for the continued culling in West Somerset and West Gloucestershire draws nearer.

The aim is to create a zone to try and prevent the spread of the disease in ares of the country where infection is low.