In reply to d_b:
Sheep ticks are apparently the most important carrier of Lyme disease and can be found on a variety of animals including deer and foxes. The younger stages often live on small mammals.
You probably know that less than half of Lyme infections show the bullseye rash.
I have never knowingly been bitten (yet) though I often walk through long vegetation frequented by deer especially in Dorset and Richmond park near London (both Lyme hotspots I believe). I wear long trousers but don't tuck them into my socks. On the other hand my son frequently gets them, including at his school in West London. Our neighbour got Lyme disease in Richmond Park (no rash) which was confirmed after he nagged his GP
It seems it is important to remove them ASAP as then they are unlikely to have transmitted the virus.
Sorry no answer to Lyme prevalence in OP's area. Southern England and the Highlands are quoted as high risk.