*** Kingston Blount play area closed ***

The parish council has had a report of an Oak Processionary Moth infestation in a tree adjacent to the play area.

The hairs of the caterpillar are dangerous to humans and dogs and can cause serious skin irritation and in the ‘wrong’ person, anaphylactic shock.

Until we know the extent of the issue and how (and when it can be dealt with), the play area and tables under the trees are, with immediate effect, closed.

The council has put barrier tape up to mark the area along with ‘closed’ signs. Please respect the closure and do not attempt entry.

In explanation, forestresearch.gov.uk says:

“Older caterpillars develop tiny hairs containing an irritating protein called thaumetopoein, from which the species derives part of its scientific name. Contact with the hairs can cause itching skin rashes and eye irritations, as well as sore throats and breathing difficulties in people and animals. The risk of exposure to these hairs is highest in May and June.

The caterpillars can shed the hairs when threatened or disturbed. The hairs can be blown by the wind and they accumulate in the caterpillars’ nests, which can fall to the ground. They can stick to trunks, branches, grass and clothing as well as to equipment, such as ropes, used by tree surgeons and forestry and ground-care workers.

Among the groups most vulnerable to the health hazards are:

• curious children;
• curious pets;
• people who work on or close to oak trees;
• anyone spending time close to infested trees; and
• grazing and browsing livestock and wild animals.”

The infestation has been reported to the Forestry Commission.