Fundraiser for bird flu struck farm sees over 1,800 donations

A fundraiser to help a family farm struck by bird flu has received over 1,800 donations to help them recoup some of the associated costs of dealing with the aftermath of a bird flu outbreak.

Orchard Organic Farm, run by Jerry and Emma Saunders from Stokeinteignhead, Newton Abbot, in Devon had 5,000 of their organic hens culled after Defra confirmed that two hens had tested positive for avian influenza.

See also: Bird flu housing measures expand after rise in cases

The family now faces the challenge of disposing of £10,000 worth of eggs and £5,000 worth of chicken feed, as they’re no longer allowed to sell or use them.

In addition, the farm is now under quarantine for 12 months, meaning no new birds are allowed to be brought on to the holding.

To help the family, a GoFund me page has been created by local villager Ellie Mitchell, who is a strong supporter of the family farm.

The fundraiser aims to raise £50,000 to help carry some of the costs and, with over 1,800 donations received, they have reached 92% of their target in just over a week.

Speaking to Farmers Weekly, Mr Saunders said they were overwhelmed by the support and kindness.

“This is the difference between surviving and not surviving. This was our primary business, and the cost involved and the loss of income are huge.”

Mr Saunders said even local primary school children have donated £5 to their cause, alongside people from all over the world, which has left them feeling humbled.

As a result of the outbreak the family had to lay off the staff and there are no plans to restock the hens.

“It’s taken 15 years to build this business and we always rear our own hens on the farm from day-old chicks. With quarantine restrictions in place for 12 months, it would take over two years to get back into it. The odds of restocking are pretty slim,” said Mr Saunders.

Urging other poultry farmers to remain vigilant, he said: “Don’t take this hideous disease lightly. I can’t believe how quickly it rippled through our flock and now effectively leaves me unemployed.”