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Avian flu detected in Lancashire
pheasants
Defra says a full investigation is underway to determine the source of the infection. (stock photo)
Affected flock estimated to contain 10,000 birds

The UK’s chief veterinary officer has confirmed a new outbreak of H5N8 avian influenza in a flock of farmed breeding pheasants in Wyre, Lancashire.

Defra says a full investigation is underway to determine the source of the infection.

The flock is estimated to contain around 10,000 birds, a number of which have died. The remainder are being humanely culled. A 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone have been put in place to limit the risk of the disease spreading.

Defra has previously confirmed outbreaks of H5N8 in East Lindsey, Lancashire, on 16 January; Settle, North Yorkshire on 6 January; Carmarthenshire, Wales, on 4 January and Lincolnshire on 16 December. A number of cases have also been detected in wild birds.

Measures are in place across the UK to prevent the spread of avian influenza, including a requirement for poultry and captive birds to be housed indoors, and a ban on bird gatherings.

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.