THE organisers of Northumberland County Show have cancelled this year's poultry classes due to bird flu restrictions.

An Avian Influenza prevention zone was declared across England on December 6, forcing owners to keep poultry and captive birds indoors, or take steps to separate them from wild birds, for their protection and safety.

James Wardle, show chairman, said that after lengthy consultation with vets and the Association of Shows and Agricultural Organisations (ASAO), they had cancelled this year’s section.

He said: "We are very disappointed and saddened to not welcome the usual magnificent display of soft and hard feathered chickens and waterfowl, however we hope you will enjoy the Egg Show that will still be taking place."

The egg show has been expanded and will include white, brown, Bantam and Waterfowl eggs, along with decorated and painted classes.

Richard Tulip, owner of Lintz Hall Farm Eggs, commercial egg producer from Burnopfield, principal partners of the show, and poultry section sponsors, said: "Avian flu can be devastating to poultry breeders so the restrictions, even though they’re awkward – especially for free range producers – are for the best."

The show is at Bywell, near Stocksfield, on Bank Holiday Monday, May 29.