Wildlife rescuers are advising people to use veterinary disinfectant on their bird tables and feeders to stop the potential spread of bird flu and salmonella.

People have been telling the East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service (WRAS) they have stopped using their bird feeders and tables because they fear catching bird flu.

It was confirmed last week that a swan found dead in Scotland was contaminated by the deadly strain.

Trevor Weeks, rescue co-ordinator of WRAS, said the risk of humans catching the disease was extremely low and salmonella on bird tables was a higher risk to birds and humans.

WRAS estimates that several hundred birds in East Sussex die from salmonella each year - probably contracted from bird tables.

He said: "Bird tables, feeders and wild birds visiting gardens do not pose a risk to members of the public of catching bird flu if they are kept hygienic."

Vet Brian Stockdale said: "Examination of these dead birds, mainly finches and house sparrows, has revealed an alarming and consistent finding.

"The vast majority of them are found to be infected with a strain of the food poisoning bug salmonella, salmonella typhimurium.

"Unfortunately the story does not stop there. The source of the bug can usually be traced back to the garden bird table."

Mr Stockdale, a director and consultant for the company F10 Biocare which makes a veterinary disinfectant, said: "We have teamed up with East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service so we can help people to clean up their tables and save some lives."

He said: "Don't stop feeding the birds. They need our help, but do try and make their dining tables more hygienic."

Bird table surfaces should be made of impervious material and edge joints sealed and tables should be moved regularly to prevent contamination.

People should avoid putting their picnic tables near bird feeders. Picnic tables should also be disinfected before use.

Mr Stockdale added: "Observing bird-table hygiene can cut down the levels of bacteria and reduce the risk of spread enormously.

"Unhygienic bird tables can help the spread of bird flu so using this disinfectant can help prevent it."

WRAS has joined forces with F10Biocare and several veterinary practices around the county to give away 500 free sample bottles of veterinary disinfectant.

These will be available from tomorrow morning from Horsebridge Veterinary Practice at Horsebridge, Hailsham; St Annes Veterinary Centre, Eastbourne; Pet Doctors, Lewes and Seaford; Meridian Veterinary Centre, Peacehaven; Chase Vets in Bexhill; Priory Veterinary Hospital in Brighton.