Dransfield Poultry

The cases in Norfolk were found in samples taken from chickens on the farm, Defra said.

Further tests

A spokesman for the government department said: “Preliminary tests have this evening indicated that the avian influenza virus is present in samples of chickens found dead on a poultry farm near Dereham in Norfolk.

“Further tests are being carried out to determine the strain of the virus and more will be known tomorrow.

“The preliminary test results show that it is likely to be the H7 strain of avian influenza and not H5N1.

“As a precautionary measure, birds on the premises will be slaughtered on suspicion of an avian notifiable disease. Restrictions have been placed on the farm.

“When the additional laboratory results are known further action may be taken.”