Stonehenge has reopened, five weeks after it was shut as a precautionary measure against foot and mouth disease. As part of the government's drive to increase tourism, English Heritage's most visited site has re-opened in time for the Easter break, after consultations with local farmers, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and Wiltshire County Council. Within hours of opening two days ago, more than 1,000 visitors travelled to the site. Pam Alexander, chief executive of English Heritage says the decision to reopen was based on a full assessment of the risks associated, on the basis of MAFF's most up-to-date guidelines: We will continue to take every precaution to prevent the risk of spreading disease by stringent adherence to MAFF advice. People will not be permitted to walk in the surrounding landscape and parking will be limited to the main English Heritage car park. Stonehenge is one of the top10 British historic attractions and the hope is that its opening will produce benefits for the national and local tourism industry. All 10 attractions are opening in time for Easter, as well as more than 200 English Heritage sites - some of which are in the areas worst hit by foot and mouth disease. David Quarmby, chair of the British Tourist Authority, said the news will send a wave of reassurance around the world that Britain is very much open for visitors.