West Berkshire at threat as toxic caterpillar spreads

Struggle to contain outbreak of oak processionary moth in Pangbourne puts district at risk

A TOXIC caterpillar which is a danger to humans and animals is spreading across trees in Pangbourne with fears it could invade other areas in West Berkshire.

The oak processionary moth outbreak began in 2010 and a despite a warning from the Forestry Commission urging walkers to steer clear of the pest and to report any sightings, it has emerged that the pest has spread.

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

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.

Following discussions with local Pangbourne residents, West Berkshire Council ward member Pamela Bale (Con) and the Forestry Commission, the Reading West MP Alok Sharma organised a meeting with Jim Paice, minister of state at the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, (DEFRA) to seek assistance in helping to eradicate the problem.

Representatives from the offices of Henley MP John Howell and Newbury MP Richard Benyon also attended, as trees in both constituencies are at risk if the Pangbourne outbreak, which has already spread over one kilometre, is not contained.

The outbreak in Pangbourne has already hit the pockets of property owners who have to shell out for treatment of their own trees plus that of neighbouring trees which are considered at risk.

Plans are being put in place for further treatment of infected trees in the spring, and the Forestry Commission has agreed to continue to survey the area of one kilometre from the importation site.

West Berkshire Council officers have been able to negotiate a bulk contract for treatment of the trees, according to Mrs Bale, which will reduce costs to the taxpayer.

Mr Sharma added: “It was incredibly helpful to get Jim Paice's support for the work to be done by the Forestry Commission in this critical year.

“The OPM is not only bad news for oak trees but can also present a potential health risk for humans and so it is vital that this outbreak is contained and eradicated before it spreads and does any more damage.”

Pangbourne sightings can be reported to West Berkshire Council on (01635) 519675.

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