Farmers in the region warn turkeys could cost up to £130 each this Christmas

Turkeys are considered a staple feature on Christmas day - but there is a warning that this year might include a not-so-festive price tag.

Producers in our region say that the cost of some turkeys could be £130 each this Christmas.

The price of rearing and caring for the birds has risen by more than a fifth since last year.

Some farmers are even warning of turkey shortages as the impact of rising costs and the avian flu epidemic make rearing them unprofitable.

David Knipe, a turkey farmer in Cumbria said an average free range turkey could cost up to £65 to rear:

Stuart Houston , a butcher in Dumfries, said: "Last year we saw quite a hike in the price of turkeys.

"And I think we're going to see that again this year. You're going to see maybe about £15, £20, more but nobody knows.

"Last year there wasn't any spares at all. This year I think things will be a bit tighter."

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