Oxfordshire's senior enforcement officer for animal health and welfare believes the county's free range poultry breeders should prepare to take their birds inside.

Speaking this morning (April 6), Mike Gregson said the discovery of a dead swan, infected with avian flu, in Cellardyke, near St Andrews, in Scotland, was still unlikely to have an impact on Oxfordshire, but that farmers and the public should have contingency plans ready.

"The way the disease is spread, it isn't like it's going to sweep the length of the country, like foot and mouth did, but if the swan is found to be infected with the H5N1 strain of the virus, we may see an order for bird keepers to take their stocks indoors," he said.

"Of course, this would have huge implications for these breeders and practically it will be very difficult.

"They will be concerned, but breeders should be looking at their plans for this now."

Asked whether the public should be alarmed by the first case of bird flu found on British shores, Mr Gregson added: "All professional advice is that there is no risk for eating poultry or eggs, provided they're cooked correctly.

"We would also ask everyone to report any unusual die-off among birds to the helpline 08459 335577."