WYCHBOLD Swan Rescue Centre has launched a fundraising appeal after an outbreak of Avian Influenza, also known as bird flu.

Last month the UK Veterinary Officer confirmed a highly pathogenic case at the rescue centre and all birds were humanely culled.

Jan Harrington who started the centre over fifty years ago said it will be months before they can re-open again following the outbreak.

Kind-hearted volunteer, John Stewart has created a fundraising appeal to support the centre which was already suffering from the effects of the Covid pandemic.,

Ms Harrington said: “The money will go towards vets and general running of the place and keeping the centre open.

“It will be another couple of months until we can reopen and completely be rid of the outbreak.

“There so much money involved with getting rid of the virus as all the birds bedding had to be burnt which cost over £1,000.

“The disinfectant is also really expensive.”

Jan recalls the day she found out the birds had to be culled and said it was ‘horrific’.

“Two birds died over night and then a few chickens died,” added Jan.

“I have seen this before, so I noticed what was happening straight away.

"We closed the gates to the centre, and we called DEFRA they moved in and took tests. The team confirmed it was a nasty strain of bird flu."

A 3km and 10km temporary control zone has also been put in place around the infected premises to limit the risk of the disease spreading.

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An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone has been declared across Great Britain meaning all bird keepers are required by law to take a range of biosecurity precautions.

Ms Harrington has requested that any members of the public wanting to donate to get in contact with the centre.