An outbreak of equine flu has been reported in Kent.

The Animal Health Trust confirmed a positive test for the virus at an unnamed yard - sparking fears other horses may be at be risk.

Having taken in an unvaccinated arrival from Ireland two weeks ago, 20 other horses at the venue have come into contact with the animal.

Five of those with horses are said to be showing similar symptoms of the infected animal.

The Kent horse with equine flu has "coughing and nasal discharge".

Those thought to have come in contact with the affected animal had previously been vaccinated at various times.

Racing restarted across Britain this week, but further outbreaks in areas such as central Scotland and Derbyshire show the virus could still be spreading.

This Saturday's arena eventing competition at Duckhurst Farm in Tonbridge has been cancelled as a precaution.

The organisers - the Ashford Valley Hunt Pony Club - have published an alert to competitors informing them of the cancellation.

It states: "After much agonising we have made the difficult decision to cancel Saturday's AVHPC Arena Eventing competition at Duckhurst Farm.

"With new equine flu cases being diagnosed in Kent, we feel to run this event would be irresponsible at this time.

"We are sorry to miss this opportunity to hand out all the gorgeous Valentine's Day rosettes, but there will be another day in the sunshine for us all to enjoy that.

"Horse-events will be refunding your entry fees, less £2 per competitor to cover our cancellation costs.

"Horse-events will also be emailing all entrants so that everyone is aware."

A statement released today on the British Equine Federation (BEF) website warns owners to be proactive.

It reads: "The BEF continues to urge horse owners to be vigilant for signs of equine flu and to alert their vet if they think their horses are showing symptoms.

"As has been demonstrated in this outbreak, vaccinations are vital in tackling the spread of the disease so all owners MUST ensure their vaccination records are up to date.

"If it’s been longer than six months since the last vaccination, we strongly recommend discussing a booster with their veterinary surgeon.

"Owners have been reminded to isolate any new imports to their yard as more information has come to light following further positive tests for equine flu.

"The BEF notes that some venues are insisting – as they are perfectly entitled to – that all horses must have received a booster within the last six months.

"This is a decision based on a local veterinary risk assessment so we would remind participants to check the requirements of venues before they set off.

"We also remind owners that any contact with recently imported horses represents an increased risk so owners should follow veterinary advice by isolating any recently imported horse for a period of at least 21 days."