Vets investigate chicken deaths

Concern was raised over the welfare of chickens in the hot weather

Government vets have been called in to investigate reports that hot weather caused the deaths of a large number of chickens at a plant near Aberdeen.

The Scottish SPCA, which is being kept informed of developments, said the number of dead birds at the Portlethan poultry plant was lower that thought.

Plant owners Grampian Country Food Group declined to confirm any details.

A spokeswoman insisted a number of measures had been implemented to prevent any excessive build up of heat.

She said: "Grampian Country Food Group takes the welfare of its chicken flocks very seriously by at all times ensuring that they are kept in a controlled environment to ensure that it meets the birds' physiological needs.

"Due to the excessively high temperatures the country is facing at this time we have implemented a number of measures on farm to minimise the effect on our flocks."

The State Veterinary Service confirmed that it was involved with the company and a veterinary investigation was being carried out.