Burning of more than 1,000 animals has begun at a farm near Colchester following the first outbreak of the disease in north Essex.

Vets from the Agriculture and Food Ministry, Maff, confirmed the worst fears on Friday after taking samples from animals at Wick Farm, Layer de la Haye.

The discovery led to 24 cattle, 1,300 sheep and two pigs being slaughtered. The process of incinerating the carcasses began late yesterday (Sunday) afternoon .

Signs of the disease are believed to have been detected in five beef cows at the farm on Thursday, and the outbreak was confirmed the following morning. It is thought they had been in contact with animals involved in the Devon outbreak.

Farmer Richard Lennox has not made any public comment on the situation.

It brings the total of cases detected in Essex to eight.

Restrictions on the movement of livestock have been imposed on farms within 8km of Wick Farm.

Brian Finnerty, regional spokesman for the National Farmers' Union, said it was a further blow for farmers in the area.

"It does seem to have been spreading very quickly and there is great concern, particularly as more cases are spotted in Essex and this is the first in Colchester."

Fires burning at Wick Farm, Layer de la Haye.

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