The latest forecast from Rothamsted Research estimates that 62pc of the East's sugar beet crop could be affected by virus yellows (VY) in 2026 if no control measures are taken.

The regional report covers the area growing sugar beet for British Sugar's two Norfolk factories at Cantley and Wissington, and the Bury St Edmunds site in Suffolk.

The model assumes a sowing date of March 30, and farmers are advised that "earlier sowing will reduce VY risk, and later sowing dates will increase risk".

It also predicts the first aphids - which spread the disease - will begin flying on April 22.

Researchers say despite January's frosts, warmer-than-average temperatures, particularly during February, are likely to have supported over-wintering aphid populations.

The Norwich-based BBRO (British Beet Research Organisation) says: "Virus yellows continues to be a major threat to UK sugar beet production. Forecasting VY risk and estimating aphid migrations can target when crop observations for aphids should begin and prepare interventions to limit virus spread."

The projected infection level would represent one of the highest levels of virus yellows pressure faced by the UK sugar beet sector following the loss of neonicotinoid pesticide seed treatments - which were banned across the EU in 2018 due to fears over their impact on the health of bees and other pollinators.

Although emergency authorisations were approved by the previous government, this is not an option in 2026.

© Eastern Daily Press