A WILDLIFE group in north Cumbria has issued a warning after an outbreak of deadly squirrel pox.

The Penrith and District Red Squirrel Group say the virus was reported in the Lowther Caravan Park area near Penrith earlier this week.

A spokesman from the team said 'strong advice' has been issued those staying on the site.

The advice states: "Remove all squirrel and bird feeders and stop feeding.

"Please disinfect the feeding area and all feeders but do not put them up for the time being.

"This is vital and hopefully a temporary measure which will make any surviving reds spread out and hopefully give us the chance to save some of them."

The spokesman added that a number of Rangers are working in the area to help the red squirrels - also known as reds.

"If you are worried about the reds in your area, the signs and symptoms of the squirrel pox virus are: skin ulcers, lethargic and shivering, lesions and scabs, swelling and discharge from the lesions/scabs near the eyes, mouth, feet and genitalia."

According to Northern Red Squirrels, the virus is usual fatal to red squirrels.

Grey squirrels are carriers of the infection and can spread the disease to red squirrels. The greys have developed immunity to the disease having been exposed to the virus for many years.

To make a report, call 07788 264571 or email info@penrithredsquirrels.org.uk.