NOTICES have now been put up around Windsor and Eton riversides, following recent cases of bird flu in the area.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM) is calling for residents to “play their part” and minimise the spread.

One case was originally found in Eton on January 2 and Defra’s disease control zone is in place.

With more than sixty cases confirmed across the UK since the start of November, the country is facing its largest outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza.

Following national advice, RBWM has put some targeted measures in place focussed around the affected area.

One warning is urging dog owners to keep dogs on leads along the riverbanks at Windsor and Eton, including adjacent grassy areas such as The Brocas.

The aim of this is to reduce the risk of dogs getting near to potentially infected bird mess.

And it will stop pets spreading infection on their feet.

READ MORE: Bird flu case confirmed in captive flock near Windsor

Another measure the council has put in place is asking people not to feed the swans for now.

This is to reduce public footfall and discourage swans and other waterfowl from gathering close together to eat food.

Here's RBWM's Facebook post on its new notices:

Berkshire charity Swan Support has agreed to monitor the swan population and will feed them for the time being.

After the charity reported it retrieved two dead swans on January 5, it stated: "We are now closely monitoring the flock several times a day, and in particular a number of swans that are displaying symptoms.

"We are working extremely hard to minimise the impact of this virus and stop the spread.

"Our rescuers are on call 24 hours a day and we will go out immediately as soon as we are informed of a dead bird."

READ MORE: 'Heart-breaking time for all of us': 26 swans put down amid bird flu outbreak

It now has a designated rescuer in Windsor.

An RSPCA spokesperson added: "Sadly, bird flu can affect all types of birds and it is important that it is taken seriously by everyone. 

"Defra is leading the drive to manage the spread of this horrible bird disease, which has no known cure.

"Where requested, the RSPCA is working with the government and others to help manage suspected outbreaks in local wild bird populations."

People should not touch dead or sick wild birds.

If anyone finds a dead swan, geese or ducks, or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, contact Defra on 03459 33 55 77.