Squirrelpox outbreak among reds in forest

An outbreak of Squirrelpox virus has been detected in red squirrels near Dumfries.

Conservationists have warned it could have serious consequences for the population of the animals in Heathhall Forest.

Several animals have been spotted in the forest with classic signs of the disease, which is usually fatal within two weeks.

Symptoms include weeping lesions on the face, paws and genitalia.