Gannow Farm in Inkberrow said it is devastated after several people became unwell after visiting the farm.​

It is speculated that the source of the illness is a bug called Cryptosporidium, which is passed on from a person or animal by touching faeces or by the infected person touching work surfaces without cleaning their hands properly.

The decision has been made to close the remainder of the 2024 Farm Experience with those who have bought a ticket to expect a full refund.

A spokesperson for Gannow Farm said: "We are very sad to report that several people have contacted us to inform us they have become unwell after visiting the farm.​

"It seems highly likely that we are the probable source of a bug called Cryptosporidium which has made a number of our visitors ill with sickness and diarrhoea.​

"We are deeply saddened to hear that anyone has become unwell since visiting the farm, as we have made every precaution possible to prevent this.

"We hope that anyone who is poorly gets well soon.​

"We contacted Environmental Health at 8.15am Monday 8 to inform them that we suspected we might be spreading some infection.

"We have received confirmation from Environmental Health that a diagnosis has been made for Cryptosporidium.​

"We have requested an urgent visit by Environmental Health to assess the farm and establish a root cause.​

"Please be kind to the staff, as they have all worked so hard to make this year as enjoyable and safe as possible for you all."

Cryptosporidium is a common bug that can be easily caught by touching animals.

It causes sickness and diarrhoea, and those with the bug have been told to contact 111 if they have severe symptoms, such as bloody diarrhoea.

Gannow Farm looks after 300 animals and has welcomed 11,106 visitors since opening in 2022.

It spans 84 acres and is owned and operated by the Edgar family.