The latest on bluetongue in England and Wales | NFU webinar
24 August 2026, 12:30 – 13:30
Virtual Event
Bluetongue virus serotype 3 is now an active and immediate risk for livestock keepers across England and Wales. Join NFU experts and industry specialists for an update on the latest disease situation, what to do if you suspect BTV‑3, and practical guidance on vaccination planning, livestock movements and fallen stock arrangements.
As the rapid spread of bluetongue continues to impact livestock farms across England and Wales, the NFU and NFU Cymru are bringing together a panel of industry experts to share information on the current situation and the steps producers can take to minimise the risk of disease on their farm.
Members will also have the opportunity to raise concerns and ask questions directly to experts.
Who should attend?
We strongly encourage attendance from: Livestock keepers, farm workers, farm apprentices, family members involved in day-to-day stock management.
Why attend?
This webinar is designed to give NFU members:
- Clear, reliable and up-to-date information.
- Direct access to experts working at the forefront of the issues around bluetongue.
- The opportunity to ask questions.
- Practical advice to help protect livestock and business operations.
What will be covered?
This hour long webinar will provide the latest information on:
- The current BTV-3 case picture, hotspots and transmission risk.
- How to recognise and report suspect disease in sheep and cattle.
- Vaccination timing, prioritisation and supply constraints.
- Fallen stock requirements, capacity pressures and costs.
- The NFU’s latest asks to support affected farmers.
See below for speaker biographies.
Hear from an expert panel
As well as specialists from Welsh Government and Boehringer Ingelheim there will be a team of NFU experts.
Tom Bradshaw
Tom farms in partnership with his wife, Emily, and his parents in North Essex. Alongside a small owned farm they run a larger contract farming business growing a range of combinable crops across 950 hectares in North East Essex.
Abi Reader
Abi is a third-generation mixed farmer, farming in partnership with her parents and uncle in Wenvoe, just outside Cardiff.
Dr Richard Irvine
Dr Irvine joined the Welsh Government in March 2023 having been UK Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer, and policy Deputy Director for Global Animal Health in the UK Government.
A highly experienced veterinarian, Richard has worked in the profession for more than 25 years and brings with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise, with a background in animal health and welfare, trade policy, as well as science and state veterinary medicine.
Ele Brown
Eleanor (Ele) Brown is the UK’s DCVO (Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer) with a focus on national animal health and welfare issues.
Cat McLaughlin
Catherine (Cat) McLaughlin is the NFU's Chief Animal Health and Welfare Adviser and is currently serving as a director of RUMA Agriculture after serving as its chair for six years.
Rebecca Veale
We're awaiting Rebecca's profile and will publish it as soon as we can.
Book your place now
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