'DON'T panic.' That's the advice from of one of the largest poultry farmers in the Bromsgrove area as fears grew this week that the deadly bird flu virus is about to spread to Britain from the continent.

While scientists are urging that millions of free-range chickens should be brought indoors to save Britain's flocks from contracting the disease, egg producer Peter Whittaker says we should not respond to the threat with a knee-jerk reaction.

Peter, who keeps 16,000 laying birds at his farm in Stoney Lane, Tardebigge, put all his eggs in one basket last year when he moved into poultry from mixed farming.

Calling for common sense to prevail he said he understands the concerns of the public and his fellow producers.

Many, like him, have invested heavily in free-range production to meet growing demands of consumers for what is perceived as a healthier product produced with regard to the bird's welfare.

If his flock were forced indoors for any length of time he would lose his free-range status and the premium prices for his eggs.

"People are worried and I can understand why," he said. "But the disease is not yet in Britain and I believe the situation is being hyped up out of all proportion just as the way salmonella in eggs was and BSE, CJD and Aids in humans was blown up.

"I fear the hype will put people off buying poultry products."

Peter is a district councillor for Tardebigge ward and is portfolio holder for environmental issues on the executive cabinet.

He said sales of his eggs at the farm gate have not dropped off, but bird flu is a big talking point with many customers who are worried on health grounds.

"I reassure them by telling them the virus is not even in this country and is not food borne and it dies with the bird. Also it has to mutate in order that humans can contract it and there is no evidence to suggest it will."