Toxic caterpillar alert

Public health chiefs have sent out an alert over the toxic caterpillars of the oak processionary moth, which are invading parts of West Berkshire again.
People in affected areas have been warned not to go near the hairy creatures or their nests, to keep children and pets away and to report any sightings to their local authority.
The pests - a foreign invader - are each covered in 63,000, toxin-containing hairs which can trigger potentially lethal asthma attacks, itchy skin rashes and eye, nose and throat irritations.
They are a tree pest, too, because they damage oak trees by feeding on the leaves, sometimes leaving the trees severely defoliated and vulnerable to other pests, diseases or drought.
The hairs can be blown on the wind, and left in the silken, web-like nests which the caterpillars build in oak trees. They pose the greatest risk from May to July, although nests should not be approached at any time.
They first appeared in Britain in 2006, after they were brought into London on a batch of oak trees imported from Holland, and have since colonised parts of West Berkshire.
A spokeswoman for Public Health England, Dr Yvonne Doyle, said: “We strongly advise people not to touch or approach the caterpillars or their nests.
“Pets can also be affected and should be kept away as well. 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 111.”
The Forestry Commission is working West Berkshire Council and local land managers to tackle the outbreaks with a carefully controlled programme of tree spraying and nest removal.
Sightings can be reported to West Berkshire Council on 01635 42400.