AN OXFORDSHIRE poultry seller fears his livelihood could be in jeopardy following the outbreak of bird flu in Suffolk.

The Government says the risk of the disease spreading to humans is low and there is no need for panic.

But as a precaution, in addition to a restriction zone round the affected farm near Halesworth, it has revoked the national general licence on bird gatherings and bird shows, and pigeon racing will not be permitted.

Michael Hodgkins, of New Barn Farm in Longworth, said: "We had just got back to normal after last year's scare and then this happened. At the moment, we are waiting to see what happens, but we are very concerned.

"This is our livelihood - we sell free range chickens for a living and have done for 50 years.

"It's early days, but it's not great news for people working in our business."