A popular wetland centre has closed its doors after an outbreak of avian flu.
Martin Mere Wetland Centre on the outskirts of Ormskirk has been closed to visitors since Friday and said in a statement the move is a "precautionary measure to prevent the spread of avian influenza". New cases of bird flu were detected at premises in Norfolk, Suffolk and Lancashire over the weekend and have been on the rise in Lancashire since September 24.
The UK government’s Animal and Plant Health Agency and UK Health Security Agency state that the risk to public safety is "very low". However, they have advised people not to touch or approach dead and unwell birds.
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A statement posted on the Martin Mere website said: "Cases of avian influenza remain widespread across the UK. To protect the birds in our care and those returning to spend winter on our reserve, and as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of avian influenza, Martin Mere Wetland Centre is closed temporarily due to requirements from the UK government.
"These measures will help protect the birds here. We apologise for the disappointment we know this will cause. We will provide a further update on Monday October 10. If you've booked to visit over the weekend, we'll be in touch to arrange a transfer of your tickets or refund."
If you have any concerns Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs can be contacted for more information.
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