Wildlife lovers are urging dog walkers and others to take care after an outbreak of bird flu was confirmed in Middlewich.

Seven swans, one black headed gull and a duck has died as a result of an outbreak of AI (bird flu) on the canal in the South Cheshire town.

Bird keepers are also being urged to take extra care after the deaths were confirmed as a result of bird flu on the Rent and Mersey canal or the adjoining Middlewich branch of the Shropshire Union canal. The information can be found on the Animal and Plant Health Agency's (APHA) map here

A spokesperson from the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) said: "H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza virus has been isolated in a mute swan collected at Middlewich, Cheshire."

Seven swans, a gull and a duck have died in Middlewich since the outbreak. (Photo: Nub News)

Animal charity, the Wildlife Helpers - Cheshire say on their Facebook page: " We have received the official notification of positive Avian Influenza test results for Middlewich,

"Some may know that over the past week or so we have been dealing with the outbreak of AI on the canal at the Kings Lock, Middlewich.

"As of today six swans and one black headed gull have passed away and a further swan and duck have passed away on the adjoining Middlewich branch canal.

"Please any local bird keepers follow the strict biosecurity protocols given by DEFRA/APHA to protect your birds."

They are also advising visitors to the canal the following advice:

- stick close to the fence when walking past as this area is least affected by the birds' poo,

- keep dogs on leads and do not allow them near the birds, poo or water,

- please let us know if you see any sick or dead birds, and report dead birds to DEFRA

- please do not touch any sick or dead birds on the canal

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