BIRD FLU WARNING TO COAST WALKERS

Fears after avian deaths on Findhorn Bay

WALKERS and tourists have been asked to avoid Findhorn Bay in Moray after 22 pink-footed geese and an "unusual" number of gulls were found dead of suspected avian flu.

NatureScot is asking members of the public to stay away from the site as much as possible as it awaits test results to see if the deaths are due to the disease.

The Scottish nature agency also urged recreational shooters not to use their guns around the bay and surrounding feeding fields, and asked walkers and locals to also steer clear.

It comes as the UK is facing its largest ever outbreak of avian flu, which has already killed tens of thousands of birds, with seabird populations badly hit.