Bird flu exclusion zone revoked after no new cases

Avian flu control measures covering a 3km (1.9 mile) zone were put in place near Stockbridge

An exclusion zone set up to contain bird flu has been revoked after no further cases were detected.

Last month the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said the Avian flu had been found in captive birds at a premises near Stockbridge, Hampshire.

A 3km (1.9 mile) "captive bird controlled zone" was put in place around the site. The special measures included the recording of all visitors, poultry and eggs entering or leaving.

But officials said all the required testing and cleaning had been completed, with no further signs of infection found in the surrounding area.

A Defra spokesperson said: "Following the completion of disease-control activities and surveillance in the zone around the affected premises near Stockbridge, the 3km captive bird controlled zone has been revoked.

"We continue to monitor the situation closely and remind all bird keepers to maintain high standards of biosecurity."

Although local restrictions have been lifted, the national Avian Influenza Prevention Zone remains in force across England.

It means all bird keepers, whether they have a small backyard flock or a commercial operation, must continue to follow strict biosecurity measures to help prevent future outbreaks.