Virus causes Christmas market to cancel reindeer

The government has brought in restrictions after an outbreak of bluetongue disease in East Yorkshire

A Christmas market's reindeer parade has been cancelled due to an outbreak of bluetongue disease.

The animals were due to feature at the Beverley Festival of Christmas, taking place on Sunday, but the event falls within a restriction zone for the viral illness.

Restrictions were brought in on 17 September after the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs said there was "evidence that there is some local transmission of bluetongue virus".

The disease, which does not affect humans, is carried by midges and affects cattle and sheep, causing problems with swallowing, lameness and stiffness.

East Riding of Yorkshire councillor Nick Coultish said: “We are disappointed that the reindeer will not feature at this year’s festival, but the welfare of the animals is of upmost importance.

"We have been directed by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs that they are unable to travel into our area.’’

The annual event features more than 120 stalls selling food and Christmas gifts.

Listen to highlights from Hull and East Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.