Poultry producers have been urged to remain vigilant following a case of avian influenza discovered at a duck farm in Yorkshire. The strain was identified as H5N8, which has also been detected in outbreaks elsewhere in Europe in recent days.

On Wednesday, NFU poultry chair Duncan Priestner said the union had been working closely with Government and industry in response to the outbreak. Priestner said he will continue to make significant efforts to ensure members were up-to-date on the day-to-day developments.

He continued, "Some of the issues we have been working on for those farmers within the restriction zones, include ensuring producers can obtain licences as soon as possible so businesses can operate as normal.

"In the meantime, we would urge all poultry producers to remain vigilant and continue with their ongoing on-farm hygiene and biosecurity measures. Anyone who suspects that their birds might be ill should inform their local vet as soon as possible.

"It must be stressed that consumers should be aware that this is a bird health issue and that they can be reassured that eating British poultry products is safe. As it stands this is an isolated instance and while the poultry industry remains on high alert, it is business as usual."