East Anglia's pig farmers have been urged to tighten their biosecurity against a disease which threatens to "devastate" the sector if it arrives in the UK.

Stewart Houston, pig sector chairman for the Red Tractor farm assurance scheme, has warned about the growing risk of African swine fever (ASF).

In a blog on the Red Tractor website, Mr Houston urges farmers to step up their efforts to keep the deadly animal disease out of the country as it spreads across Europe.

"As farmers, it’s our responsibility to ensure the health and wellbeing of the animals in our care," he says.

"Whilst ASF doesn’t affect humans, it is a highly contagious and fatal notifiable disease that is present in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Mainland Italy has recently confirmed its first ever case of the strain currently circulating in Europe, Asia, and Central America.

"The risk of ASF reaching the UK has increased. If it were to arrive here, it would have a devastating impact on the health of our pig population and the domestic and international trade of pigs and pork."

Pigs are a vital part of East Anglia's agricultural economy, with an estimated 20pc of the national herd kept in Norfolk and Suffolk.

Mr Houston says ASF could reach the UK through the movement of infected live animals, or contaminated equipment or products - but the "human route" via passenger luggage or travelling farm workers is believed to be the highest risk pathway.

As the virus can survive in uncooked, cured or frozen meat, one vital measure is to ensure pigs are not fed any catering or domestic food waste, including kitchen leftovers and even dog or cat food.

He said good biosecurity is also extremely important, such as requiring all visitors and farm workers to use dedicated clothing and boots when entering pig premises, and making sure all vehicles and equipment are disinfected before and afterwards.

"It is also crucial to ensure that people who look after or visit your pigs understand the disease risk of bringing back meat products, particularly wild boar meat or pork products, from affected countries," adds Mr Houston.

For biosecurity advice for farmers, see www.gov.uk/guidance/disease-prevention-for-livestock-farmers.