RESIDENTS in Brentford and the rest of Hounslow Borough have been warned about toxic caterpillars that can cause an eye and throat irritation in humans, that have been found in the borough.

Work has now started in order to remove their nests from the borough.

The caterpillars of the Oak Processionary Moth, which can also cause itchy rashes and breathing difficulties, are easily recognisable due to their long white hairs and the way they travel in nose to tail processions.

Residents are being warned to avoid contact with the insects and are being urged to report sightings to the Forestry Commission's Tree Alert service to help with a national effort to stop their spread.

The nests are usually found on oak tree trunks or branches which can occur in rounded and sometimes hammock-like nests that resemble a greyish bundle of cotton.

If left unchecked, the invasive species can decimate oak trees by stripping them of their leaves, resulting in bare tress that are more prone to disease and other pests.

Councillor Samia Chaudhary, Cabinet Member for Leisure Services, said: "I know many of you will be enjoying spending time in the borough's beautiful parks and other green spaces with oak trees over the summer, but I urge you not to approach these caterpillars or their nests if you spot them and to prevent children from doing the same.

"It's also advisable to minimise spending time under or in the downwind of any infested oak tree, especially on windy days during the summer.

"It's important that residents should not attempt to remove the nests themselves.

"Please report any sightings using the Tree Alert service and be assured that Hounslow Council's tree management team is working very hard to manage this problem."

To report a sighting, click HERE.