Poultry and game keepers are being advised to keep a lookout for signs of avian influenza, otherwise known as bird flu, in both wild bird populations and kept birds this winter.

The advice is being issued following two confirmed cases of H5N1 Avian Influenza, one near to Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire and more another close to Wrexham, North Wales. In both cases control zones have been put in place.

It is believed that wild birds have been the cause in both cases but now countryside organisations are urging members to remain vigilant.

Glynn Evans, the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC)’s head of game and gundogs, said: “With winter migration movements underway, the risk level of bird flu is rising.

“BASC is reminding members to remain vigilant to the signs of bird flu and that bird keepers should follow the Government’s biosecurity best practice advice. It is also essential that anyone within one of the control zones follows the rules and measures which have been implemented.

“BASC is in close contact with the relevant government agencies and will continue to update members of any developments.”