THE all clear has been given by Defra to a stables near Highampton which was placed under restrictions following an outbreak of the equine virus Swamp Disease.

In September, one horse at Hole Station Campsite tested positive to the deadly disease — also known as Equine Infectious Anaemia — and had to be destroyed.

Two other horses at the site were tested for the disease but results came back negative. However, the premises remained under restrictions to prevent any spread of the disease, which can be transmitted through bodily fluids or horse-fly bites.

After a 90-day period, the remaining horses were tested again, and Defra has now announced the result was negative. A spokesman said: 'The owner of the infected premises has now been informed of the negative results and restrictions have been lifted.'

Neighbour Penny Mills said: 'We're all very relieved that the animals have been given the all clear, and let's hope this is the end of the problem.

'As we live so close, our donkeys had to be checked for the disease and it was a worrying time. We're happy that our donkeys and the remaining horses are clear.'

British event rider Lucy Wiegersma, who keeps 60 horses at Acquila Equestrian Centre at Warren Farm, a mile from the outbreak, said the news would be a big relief for the campsite owners.

'I'm really delighted for them that the horrible restrictions have been lifted. I feel every sympathy with them for all they've been through.

'At the time we were reassured by the vets that the outbreak was very localised, so it didn't really affect us, but they must be very relieved to draw a line under this horrible outbreak. I wish them all the best for the coming year, and hope it will be a happier time for them.'

Neighbours were concerned at the time by a lack of information from Defra, which has a long-standing policy of not naming infected premises so as not to discourage concerned animal owners from coming forward if they fear their animals may be ill.

Two other cases of swamp fever emerged this year in Wiltshire and Northumbria. The disease has been likened to HIV in humans and attacks the immune system.