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Bluetongue has been detected at a farm in Lincolnshire.

APHA confirmed the case had been detected in North East Lincolnshire after surveillance on Tuesday (September 10).

The Government body said a 20km Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) has been placed around the affected farm.

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However, TCZs have been revoked in Suffolk and Norfolk with Restriction Zones, which now also encompasses Essex as well. 

Last Wednesday (September 4), a case of the virus was found in a bull near Withernsea in the East Riding of Yorkshire.

There have been more than 35 cases of the virus since August 26.

And between November and March, Defra said 126 cases of bluetongue were reported in Kent, Suffolk and Norfolk.

In Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands, there have been over 4,000 bluetongue incidents since May.

The Government has also permitted the use of three unauthorised bluetongue vaccines subject to a licence.

NFU president Tom Bradshaw said recent cases had caused 'worry' for farmers as he urged the industry to remain 'alert and vigilant' to signs of the disease.

Rosy Louis, Livestock and Equine lead at the Lincolnshire Showground, said she was concerned for the well-being of farmers in the county following the confirmed case.

"Unfortunately it was just a matter of time for it to reach Lincolnshire," she added.

"This is another obstacle for our farming community to overcome, with the added difficulty of the dark nights pulling in as well. 

"We are lucky we have the Lincolnshire Rural Support Network at our fingertips for farmers if it is all getting a bit too much.

"And as an agricultural society, if there is anything you think we can do or support you on please do not hesitate to contact us."

AHDB have confirmed a bluetongue webinar session will take place later on today between 5pm and 6pm which you can join sign up for .

Defra said any suspicions of bluetongue must be reported to the Government by calling 03000200301 in England and 03003038268 in Wales. 

The  helpline number is 08001381710.

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