A LOCAL sheep owner has appealed for advice from fellow farmers as cases of bluetongue continue to rise across the South West.

Alisha Russ, who keeps two Valais Blacknose sheep in the Forest of Dean, said she was becoming increasingly concerned after seeing reports of the disease spreading in neighbouring counties.

In a social media post, she asked whether there had been any confirmed cases closer to home and said she was struggling to find a veterinary practice willing to provide just two vaccine doses for her small flock.

She wrote: "I'm getting a bit worried after seeing recent reports about bluetongue becoming a serious hotspot in the South West.

"I live in the Forest of Dean and have two Valais Blacknose sheep. Has anyone heard of any confirmed cases nearby? I'm looking to get them vaccinated, but I haven't found any vets willing to do just two doses yet."

Government figures show there have been 134 confirmed cases of bluetongue (BTV-3) across the UK during the 2026-27 season, with 130 in England and four in Wales. No cases have been recorded in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

The latest update, published on August 4, confirmed 29 new cases, the majority involving sheep in Devon and Cornwall. Some affected flocks have suffered significant losses, with keepers reporting multiple deaths alongside confirmed infections.

Since July 10, Devon has recorded 64 confirmed cases, followed by Somerset with 29 and Cornwall with 23.

Experts say the warm weather has allowed the biting midges that spread the virus to become active, increasing the risk of transmission.

England and Wales remain country-wide bluetongue restricted zones, allowing livestock to move freely between the two countries without vaccination or pre-movement testing, although separate rules remain in place for germinal products and movements into Scotland.

Defra continues to fund diagnostic testing for up to three animals where bluetongue is suspected.