A TWO-mile radius ‘protection zone’ has been imposed on Exmoor following a confirmed case of avian influenza (H5N1) in a premises near Dulverton.

The Animal Plant and Health Agency (APHA) has also imposed a six-mile ‘surveillance zone’, which is affecting a wide area of farms, shoots, and smallholdings across West Somerset.

Anybody keeping poultry, whether a commercial operation or just a few hens in the garden, should check if they fall within the restriction zones using the APHA’s interactive map tool.

If any part of a holding falls within the zones, movement restrictions may apply not just to poultry but to all livestock, including cattle, pigs, and horses.

Exmoor farmer and political campaigner James Wright said: “This is another blow to our rural economy.

“Shoots and the businesses they support have been among the hardest hit over recent years, first by Covid, then by earlier avian flu outbreaks.

“Now, just as many were beginning to recover, they are facing more disruption and uncertainty.

“APHA and DEFRA need to provide proper support and clear guidance.

“At a time when trust in Government is low and businesses already struggling, we need clear communication and fast action from APHA and DEFRA.”

Mr Wright said many farms and shoots across Exmoor relied on the game and poultry sector, not just for food production, but also for local employment and tourism.

He said delays to movements, extra paperwork, and the risk of further infection could all jeopardise the fragile rural economy.

Poultry keepers in the zone are encouraged to give APHA as much notice as possible on movement license requests.

Mr Wright said if the outbreak continued, support would also be needed for the hospitality and tourism businesses which relied heavily on the shooting season.

He said clear and timely communication was required from APHA for those affected.