Deadly pox confirmed

A DEATH from squirrelpox has been confirmed in Kirkbean.

The Solway Forests Red Squirrel Network yesterday confirmed that a red squirrel found in the village in October had died of the virus.

They are therefore advising local residents to remove their garden feeders and disinfect them, and not to put them back out until it is deemed safe to do so.

In a Facebook statement, they said: “Since it has now been one month since the case was reported, we would recommend that people do not put feeders back out until the end of this month and remain vigilant for any sick looking red squirrels which they should report to us directly.”

• Library pic above