Toxic caterpillar warning for West Berkshire

Walkers urged to avoid pest oak processionary moth, and to report any sightings

PANGBOURNE residents have been warned to avoid touching a toxic caterpillar which is hatching out of oak trees in the area.

A warning has been issued by the Forestry Commission urging walkers to steer clear of the pest oak processionary moth, and to report any sightings.

The tiny hairs on the caterpillars contain can cause itchy skin rashes as well as eye and throat irritations.

Dr Brian McCloskey, director of the Health Protection Agency in London, said pets should be kept well away as they can be affected too.

"Anyone who experiences an itchy skin rash or other allergic symptoms after being near oak trees in these areas should consult their GP,” he added.

Stewart Snape, the deputy head of the Forestry Commission's Plant Health Service, said the public could help, although he urged people not to touch the caterpillars or their nests.

"The public should not try to remove the caterpillars or nests themselves. These jobs need to be carefully timed to be most effective, and are best done by specially trained and equipped operators."

Forestry, health and local authorities are also dealing with outbreaks of the moth in five boroughs of West London.

Since the species was first found in Pangbourne in 2010 the Forestry Commission and West Berkshire Council have begun efforts to eradicate it from the area before it can spread further, as well as to protect local people from the health risks.

Control within the infested area is the responsibility of tree owners and local authorities.

Pangbourne sightings can be reported to Arthur Cullen on (01635) 519675 or acullen@westberks.gov.uk

Further information is available from www.forestry.gov.uk/pestsanddiseases.