Been Vegetarian for 14 years now since the last Foot and Mouth outbreak. I was in the military at the time and involved in the pointless slaughter. Sure the outbreak was initially accidental, however I know and others who worked on it know that eventually the chance of a full year off farming with full compensation to boot meant many dishonest 'animal loving' my arse farmers took the opportunity to accidentally on purpose self infect their own precious livestock!
In short, people believe animals are dumb, but let me tell you that Ewes were in an absolute state of panic as they were getting separated from the lambs before both were slaughtered! I came back off that venture with no respect for the ever complaining Range Rover driving 'Financially Bereft' farmers and little desire to ever eat meat and finance their lives.
All my mates said I'd last about 3 weeks, however 14 years on and I'm reaping the benefits. Not only am I not eating the dreaded Cancer causing red meat, my diet is better on the whole as I have to consciously think about what I eat and I won't fall foul to instant fast food temptations.
I suppose the only downside is that if you ever do eat out the selection is less and often you wait a little longer as the fast food outlets tend not to have the Vegetarian option ready to go.
