Environment secretary Hilary Benn announced two weeks ago that the first batch of one million vaccine doses are available in 20-dose bottles, with a further two million in 50-dose bottles expected to follow soon.

The first batch is available to farmers within the protection zone and producers have been issued with a postcard reminder to order and administer the vaccine.

South Holland is in one of the highest priority areas for the vaccinations after being placed in the protection zone when a case of bluetongue was found in Spilsby, near Boston, in March.

Sheep require one dose of the vaccine while cattle require two doses, taken three weeks apart, and the National Farmers' Union (NFU) is urging every local farmer to participate.

East Midlands NFU officer Simon Fisher said: "Vaccination is the only way that the livestock producers can combat this disease and help the industry return to normality and a more stable financial footing.

"We are urging all farmers, smallholders and anyone who keeps sheep, cattle, or camelids (llamas and alpacas) as pets to contact their vet to order and use the vaccine to stop the disease before it gets a hold in this country.

"The decision to vaccinate is simple – protect your animals, your business and your industry. The alternative is unthinkable."

Deeping St Nicholas and Deeping High Bank farmer Tom Henfrey received his supply on May 3, and immediately set about vaccinating his cattle.

He is reserving judgement over the necessity of vaccinating his animals, and thinks it will only be worth it if the Department for Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) lifts the movement restrictions on livestock within the protection zone.

He said: "I think it's a complete and utter disaster. Why they need all that vaccine I don't know. It's just creating more work for me while giving more money to the vets and suppliers who charge you for it."