Latest news with #NicolaSpence
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Government alerts over bug outbreak that causes eye symptoms
The oak processionary moth must not be touched in any circumstances The Forestry Commission is calling on the public to report any sightings of the oak processionary moth caterpillars as their hatching season commences. The "greatest risk period" has been announced, starting from May 28. These caterpillars are known for defoliating trees and can also have adverse effects on human health. The public is advised to not touch the caterpillars under any circumstances. People are also warned against handling or disposing of the nests themselves. Contact with the caterpillars' white hairs or their nests can lead to painful skin rashes, as well as eye and throat irritation. Should you encounter these caterpillars, it's advisable to maintain a safe distance and report the sighting through the TreeAlert portal. Sightings are most common in South East England. Dr Edward Straw, Forestry Commission Oak Processionary Moth Programme Manager, said: 'We're already receiving reports of homeowners being affected by the caterpillars, coming out in painful rashes, and it is important those living and working in areas affected by oak processionary moth remain vigilant about the health risks they pose." Professor Nicola Spence, UK Chief Plant Health Officer, has also issued a warning. He said: "I would advise that members of the public living in London, the surrounding areas and Derbyshire, avoid any contact with the caterpillar and its nests, as this can cause irritation. "Oak trees are an iconic and much-loved part of our British landscape. By reporting any sightings of the oak processionary moth to the Forestry Commission, we can all minimise the pest's spread as well as reduce their impact on tree health." The caterpillars are named for their distinctive behaviour of moving in nose-to-tail processions up the trunks of oak trees, sometimes creating an arrow-like pattern on the bark. They munch on the leaves, which hampers the growth of the oaks and makes them more susceptible to other stressors such as drought and disease. The oak processionary moth is an alien species in the UK. It was first identified in London in 2006 after being inadvertently introduced from Europe via imported trees. In recent times, the moth has been expanding its presence across England, with new infestations detected in areas previously believed to be unaffected as recently as last July. The milder conditions this spring have led to a faster growth rate of the moths compared to past years, thus advancing the peak risk period for both the oak trees and the public.
Rhyl Journal
19-05-2025
- Health
- Rhyl Journal
Keep eye out for ‘savage' potato-threatening Colorado beetle, Titchmarsh urges
The insects and their larvae feed on the foliage of potatoes and other plants, including aubergines and peppers, which can weaken the crops and reduce yield. The invasive species was confirmed in a field in Kent after a laboratory diagnosis in 2023, marking the first known case on UK soil in 50 years. If the beetle is not eradicated and spreads across the country, it could have a significant economic impact on the British potato industry. Speaking to the PA news agency at the Chelsea Flower Show, Mr Titchmarsh said: 'It devastates potato crops and we need all the crops we can get in this country. 'It's so savage it'll wipe crops out. It's like locusts – it's that fast.' He said the secret is to 'stamp it out before it becomes reality', adding: 'There's so much waiting on the doorstep.' 'Don't panic about it, just be vigilant and then we can keep it out,' he said. The presenter also highlighted the species' threat to UK food security, as the country only grows 50% of the vegetables and 12% of the fruit it needs, importing the rest. 'It's really, really important for our exports and for feeding ourselves,' he said. 'We need to grow more food not less and with outbreaks like this, our potato exports are in grave danger.' Those who spot the insect are urged to catch it in a container if possible and contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) with a photo and location details. We'll be at #RHSChelsea Flower Show next week, sharing information on the #ColoradoBeetle: a pest of our precious #potato plants. If you #GrowYourOwn or you just love your chips, crisps & jacket potatoes, come and find out how to help protect our spuds!@The_RHS @BBCiPlayer #BTS — APHA (@APHAgovuk) May 18, 2025 The 6mm to 11mm beetle, which does not represent a risk to human health, is yellow or cream with 10 black stripes, and an orange head with irregular black spots. Its larvae are a pinkish red or orange colour, with black spots along each side, a black head, and are up to 15mm in length. The beetles have been known to be imported into the UK as hitchhikers on plants, such as leafy vegetables, salad leaves, fresh herbs, grain and frozen vegetables. Professor Nicola Spence, the Environment Department's chief plant health officer, said: 'Colorado beetle poses a significant threat to plants and the wider potato industry. 'The public have an important role to play in helping us take swift and effective action to protect UK biosecurity. 'The public are urged to be vigilant and report suspected sightings to the Animal and Plant Health Agency with a photo and location details.' Dr Jenny Stewart, APHA interim chief executive, said: 'Public vigilance was key to eradicating the beetle in the 1970s, and we really need home gardeners, allotmenteers and farmers to step up again, and identify and report suspected sightings to protect potato crops. 'Our surveillance capabilities protect UK borders from a wide range of plant pests and diseases, including the Colorado beetle, but we cannot do this without the help of the public.' APHA is exhibiting at this year's Chelsea Flower Show to raise awareness of the impact this pest can have on UK food security and the potato industry, after outbreaks in the 1930s, 1950s and the 1970s.
Glasgow Times
19-05-2025
- Health
- Glasgow Times
Keep eye out for ‘savage' potato-threatening Colorado beetle, Titchmarsh urges
The insects and their larvae feed on the foliage of potatoes and other plants, including aubergines and peppers, which can weaken the crops and reduce yield. The invasive species was confirmed in a field in Kent after a laboratory diagnosis in 2023, marking the first known case on UK soil in 50 years. If the beetle is not eradicated and spreads across the country, it could have a significant economic impact on the British potato industry. Speaking to the PA news agency at the Chelsea Flower Show, Mr Titchmarsh said: 'It devastates potato crops and we need all the crops we can get in this country. 'It's so savage it'll wipe crops out. It's like locusts – it's that fast.' He said the secret is to 'stamp it out before it becomes reality', adding: 'There's so much waiting on the doorstep.' 'Don't panic about it, just be vigilant and then we can keep it out,' he said. The presenter also highlighted the species' threat to UK food security, as the country only grows 50% of the vegetables and 12% of the fruit it needs, importing the rest. 'It's really, really important for our exports and for feeding ourselves,' he said. 'We need to grow more food not less and with outbreaks like this, our potato exports are in grave danger.' Those who spot the insect are urged to catch it in a container if possible and contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) with a photo and location details. We'll be at #RHSChelsea Flower Show next week, sharing information on the #ColoradoBeetle: a pest of our precious #potato plants. If you #GrowYourOwn or you just love your chips, crisps & jacket potatoes, come and find out how to help protect our spuds!@The_RHS @BBCiPlayer #BTS — APHA (@APHAgovuk) May 18, 2025 The 6mm to 11mm beetle, which does not represent a risk to human health, is yellow or cream with 10 black stripes, and an orange head with irregular black spots. Its larvae are a pinkish red or orange colour, with black spots along each side, a black head, and are up to 15mm in length. The beetles have been known to be imported into the UK as hitchhikers on plants, such as leafy vegetables, salad leaves, fresh herbs, grain and frozen vegetables. Professor Nicola Spence, the Environment Department's chief plant health officer, said: 'Colorado beetle poses a significant threat to plants and the wider potato industry. 'The public have an important role to play in helping us take swift and effective action to protect UK biosecurity. 'The public are urged to be vigilant and report suspected sightings to the Animal and Plant Health Agency with a photo and location details.' Dr Jenny Stewart, APHA interim chief executive, said: 'Public vigilance was key to eradicating the beetle in the 1970s, and we really need home gardeners, allotmenteers and farmers to step up again, and identify and report suspected sightings to protect potato crops. 'Our surveillance capabilities protect UK borders from a wide range of plant pests and diseases, including the Colorado beetle, but we cannot do this without the help of the public.' APHA is exhibiting at this year's Chelsea Flower Show to raise awareness of the impact this pest can have on UK food security and the potato industry, after outbreaks in the 1930s, 1950s and the 1970s.
South Wales Guardian
19-05-2025
- Health
- South Wales Guardian
Keep eye out for ‘savage' potato-threatening Colorado beetle, Titchmarsh urges
The insects and their larvae feed on the foliage of potatoes and other plants, including aubergines and peppers, which can weaken the crops and reduce yield. The invasive species was confirmed in a field in Kent after a laboratory diagnosis in 2023, marking the first known case on UK soil in 50 years. If the beetle is not eradicated and spreads across the country, it could have a significant economic impact on the British potato industry. Speaking to the PA news agency at the Chelsea Flower Show, Mr Titchmarsh said: 'It devastates potato crops and we need all the crops we can get in this country. 'It's so savage it'll wipe crops out. It's like locusts – it's that fast.' He said the secret is to 'stamp it out before it becomes reality', adding: 'There's so much waiting on the doorstep.' 'Don't panic about it, just be vigilant and then we can keep it out,' he said. The presenter also highlighted the species' threat to UK food security, as the country only grows 50% of the vegetables and 12% of the fruit it needs, importing the rest. 'It's really, really important for our exports and for feeding ourselves,' he said. 'We need to grow more food not less and with outbreaks like this, our potato exports are in grave danger.' Those who spot the insect are urged to catch it in a container if possible and contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) with a photo and location details. We'll be at #RHSChelsea Flower Show next week, sharing information on the #ColoradoBeetle: a pest of our precious #potato plants. If you #GrowYourOwn or you just love your chips, crisps & jacket potatoes, come and find out how to help protect our spuds!@The_RHS @BBCiPlayer #BTS — APHA (@APHAgovuk) May 18, 2025 The 6mm to 11mm beetle, which does not represent a risk to human health, is yellow or cream with 10 black stripes, and an orange head with irregular black spots. Its larvae are a pinkish red or orange colour, with black spots along each side, a black head, and are up to 15mm in length. The beetles have been known to be imported into the UK as hitchhikers on plants, such as leafy vegetables, salad leaves, fresh herbs, grain and frozen vegetables. Professor Nicola Spence, the Environment Department's chief plant health officer, said: 'Colorado beetle poses a significant threat to plants and the wider potato industry. 'The public have an important role to play in helping us take swift and effective action to protect UK biosecurity. 'The public are urged to be vigilant and report suspected sightings to the Animal and Plant Health Agency with a photo and location details.' Dr Jenny Stewart, APHA interim chief executive, said: 'Public vigilance was key to eradicating the beetle in the 1970s, and we really need home gardeners, allotmenteers and farmers to step up again, and identify and report suspected sightings to protect potato crops. 'Our surveillance capabilities protect UK borders from a wide range of plant pests and diseases, including the Colorado beetle, but we cannot do this without the help of the public.' APHA is exhibiting at this year's Chelsea Flower Show to raise awareness of the impact this pest can have on UK food security and the potato industry, after outbreaks in the 1930s, 1950s and the 1970s.
The Herald Scotland
19-05-2025
- Health
- The Herald Scotland
Keep eye out for ‘savage' potato-threatening Colorado beetle, Titchmarsh urges
The invasive species was confirmed in a field in Kent after a laboratory diagnosis in 2023, marking the first known case on UK soil in 50 years. If the beetle is not eradicated and spreads across the country, it could have a significant economic impact on the British potato industry. Speaking to the PA news agency at the Chelsea Flower Show, Mr Titchmarsh said: 'It devastates potato crops and we need all the crops we can get in this country. 'It's so savage it'll wipe crops out. It's like locusts – it's that fast.' He said the secret is to 'stamp it out before it becomes reality', adding: 'There's so much waiting on the doorstep.' 'Don't panic about it, just be vigilant and then we can keep it out,' he said. The presenter also highlighted the species' threat to UK food security, as the country only grows 50% of the vegetables and 12% of the fruit it needs, importing the rest. 'It's really, really important for our exports and for feeding ourselves,' he said. 'We need to grow more food not less and with outbreaks like this, our potato exports are in grave danger.' Those who spot the insect are urged to catch it in a container if possible and contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) with a photo and location details. We'll be at #RHSChelsea Flower Show next week, sharing information on the #ColoradoBeetle: a pest of our precious #potato plants. If you #GrowYourOwn or you just love your chips, crisps & jacket potatoes, come and find out how to help protect our spuds!@The_RHS @BBCiPlayer #BTS — APHA (@APHAgovuk) May 18, 2025 The 6mm to 11mm beetle, which does not represent a risk to human health, is yellow or cream with 10 black stripes, and an orange head with irregular black spots. Its larvae are a pinkish red or orange colour, with black spots along each side, a black head, and are up to 15mm in length. The beetles have been known to be imported into the UK as hitchhikers on plants, such as leafy vegetables, salad leaves, fresh herbs, grain and frozen vegetables. Professor Nicola Spence, the Environment Department's chief plant health officer, said: 'Colorado beetle poses a significant threat to plants and the wider potato industry. 'The public have an important role to play in helping us take swift and effective action to protect UK biosecurity. 'The public are urged to be vigilant and report suspected sightings to the Animal and Plant Health Agency with a photo and location details.' Dr Jenny Stewart, APHA interim chief executive, said: 'Public vigilance was key to eradicating the beetle in the 1970s, and we really need home gardeners, allotmenteers and farmers to step up again, and identify and report suspected sightings to protect potato crops. 'Our surveillance capabilities protect UK borders from a wide range of plant pests and diseases, including the Colorado beetle, but we cannot do this without the help of the public.' APHA is exhibiting at this year's Chelsea Flower Show to raise awareness of the impact this pest can have on UK food security and the potato industry, after outbreaks in the 1930s, 1950s and the 1970s.
