Government vets had been investigating suspected outbreaks in north Shropshire and Greater Manchester.

Positive tests would have meant new restrictions for livestock farmers across most of Wales, north-west England and around the Bristol Channel.

Bluetongue is a non-contagious virus spread by a midge species, affecting ruminants including sheep and cattle.

Severe in sheep

The first case of bluetongue in the UK was detected last September at a farm near Ipswich, and spread to other parts of south-east England where protection and surveillance zones remain in place.

Scotland's first and only case to date was discovered at a farm near Kirkcudbright, Dumfries and Galloway, on 28 December.

All ruminants, such as cattle, goats, deer and sheep, are susceptible, although symptoms are generally most severe in sheep.

Source: BBC News