Wetland centre to reopen after bird flu scare

A wetland nature reserve is set to reopen after possible cases of avian influenza led to the site closing for four days.

Martin Mere Wetland Centre in Lancashire shut on Thursday after cases were reported among birds in an enclosed area away from visitors.

The Burscough beauty spot, which attracted about 140,000 visitors last year, said "strict" protection measures had been implemented and a full inspection had taken place.

They said they were "looking forward to welcoming back visitors" on Monday.

In a statement, the centre said government officials "advise that the risk to public health from the virus is very low".

"If you booked to visit us while we were closed, your admission tickets are still valid on any alternative date," it added.

Avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, can be carried by wild birds migrating to the UK from mainland Europe during the winter.

In the autumn, the reserve fills with bird species including thousands of pink-footed geese and whooper swans.

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