A poisonous moth capable of causing severe breathing problems and a measle-like rash has returned to Richmond Park.

Rising temperatures and an increase in imported wood from Holland are being blamed for the arrival of the oak processionary moth almost 12 months after it appeared in 2008.

Several nests have been found but The Royal Parks, the agency which governs the eight Royal Parks, has taken acted swiftly to eradicate the pest.

The nests will be removed this month by experts once the caterpillars have retreated back into them to breed.

Mike Turner, of The Royal Parks, said: “By removing the nests we hope to contain the moth population by destroying the caterpillars before they reach adulthood, therefore reducing the pest across London.”

Contact with the caterpillar hairs can affect people in different ways, the most common problems being an itchy rash, skin or eye irritations and breathing problems from inhaling the toxin.

Roddie Burgess, of the Forestry Commission, said: "We urge people not to try to remove the nests themselves.

"They are full of toxic hairs shed by the caterpillars, which are a real health hazard, and to be most effective the work should be done by specially trained and equipped people at just the right time."

Anyone concerned about their symptoms should contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 and if you spot the moths call the park office on 020 8948 3209.

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