POULTRY traders have hit out at a "heavy-handed" ban aimed at halting the spread of bird flu.

Bird trading has been cancelled at Clitheroe Poultry, Fur and Feather Market in response to concerns regarding the H5N1 strain of avian influenza, now reported in Eastern Europe

Around 40 traders of poultry, pigeon and caged birds had to be turned away from the weekly market by Lancashire Trading Standards officers last night.

Hundreds of metal cages, usually used for poultry, lay empty around the market's main hall as traders and shoppers stayed away.

Bosses at Clitheroe Auction Mart, in Lincoln Way, claimed the ban, which will stay in place until further notice, was heavy-handed and will cost thousands of pounds in lost commission.

The decision has already led to part-time staff being laid off.

Under the restrictions agreed by the European Union, and enforced by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, all bird markets, shows, fairs, and similar events, where poultry or caged birds may be brought together are prohibited by law. The ban came into place last Friday and also relates to pigeon racing.

John Swingler, managing auctioneer, said: "We're probably the biggest event of its kind in the North West and birds form around 50per cent of our trade on Wednesday's market.

"We usually have around 1,000 lots of poultry and caged birds and their cages just stood empty tonight.

"We also have between 80 and 100 stall holders, and between 1,800 and 2,000 people come to the market, so this will have a damaging effect on us.

"We take commission on birds sold, so we've lost that. Also, we've had to lay off four or five part-time staff because there isn't the work. The traders don't have to pre-book so we don't know who they are to warn them to stay away.

"I have some sympathy with what the government are trying to do, but it seems heavy-handed given that there are only two parrots which might have avian flu symptoms in the whole country.

"What's worrying is these restrictions are much harder to take off than put on."

John Buckley, 55, a caged bird trader from Bacup, said: "I knew about the bird restrictions, but I came anyway because it's more of a social thing.

"I would normally buy parrots and budgies, and I have to say this ban is over-the-top. But what's to stop people selling birds out of the boot of their car?"

One poultry dealer from Samlesbury, who asked not to be named, said: "I come down most weeks and usually sell up to 100 birds a time which makes me a few hundred pounds.

"It's pretty dead here tonight. You usually can't move because all the breeders bring their wives and families who go round the stalls. This will have a damaging effect on breeders, traders and the market."

In addition to Clitheroe's market, Longridge Poultry Market, which usually takes place on Monday mornings, has also been closed until further notice.