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Toxic caterpillar moth hatching in Pangbourne





Attempts to eradicate the oak processionary moth outbreak have failed amid fears it could invade other areas in West Berkshire including Newbury.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has advised anyone who sees the tennis ball-sized nests to avoid touching them, as the tiny hairs on the caterpillars can cause itchy skin rashes as well as eye and throat irritations.
Parents have been warned to keep a close eye on tree-climbing children and inquisitive pets walking in the woods around Pangbourne.
The caterpillars eat oak leaves, and large populations can strip trees of their leaves, leaving them weakened and vulnerable to other threats.
They will even attack other broad-leaved trees such as hornbeam, hazel, beech, sweet chestnut and birch.
A one kilometre zone was set up around infected trees by the Forestry Commission last year to survey the pest but the outbreak in Pangbourne hit the pockets of property owners who had to shell out for treatment of their own foliage plus that of neighbouring trees which are considered at risk.

HPA spokesman Dr Brian McCloskey said: "The nests can be full of toxic hairs, even after the moths have emerged, and the hairs remain toxic for a long time.
“The hairs can be blown about by the wind, so it's important that people and animals do not touch or go near the nests.
"Anyone who experiences an itchy or painful skin rash or a sore throat and irritated eyes after being near oak trees in these areas should consult their GP or NHS Direct, who have been given advice about recognising the symptoms and appropriate treatment."
The south east England director for the Forestry Commission, Alison Field, said local people should reporting sightings of the nests immediately.
“We also advise people against trying to remove the nests themselves, even if they own the tree.
"To be as effective and safe as possible this job needs to be timed just right and done by people with the right training and equipment, and the nests must be disposed of properly."
The toxic pest was first found in London in 2006 and has spread despite considerable attempts to eradicate it, hence the need for decisive action to be taken in Pangbourne.
It is believed to have entered Britain on semi-mature trees imported for planting in landscaping projects.
The NHS Direct number is 0845 4647, and health information is available from the HPA website, www.hpa.org.uk.
Further information about OPM is available from the Forestry Commission website at www.forestry.gov.uk/oakprocessionarymoth.



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