RESIDENTS are being advised to take care and avoid trees in the region that are infested with moths that can cause rashes, other skin irritations and symptoms similar to hay fever.

A recent outbreak of Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) infestation has been reported in Bulhan where nests have been found in an oak tree in the village recreation park – and there are reports they have spread to residential gardens in the Peartree Road area.

A number of children have suffered rashes and were checked out at hospital before being given the appropriate medical treatment.

Thurrock Council has acknowledged the problem and in a statement said: "We are aware of this matter and contractors will safely remove the nests. Signs have been put up to warn visitors to stay away from the trees."

The council's tree officer – the appropriately named Liz Wood - gave Thurrock Nub News an insight into the issue and recent history of infestation in Thurrock.

She said: "We have been dealing with OPM for many years in Thurrock some years are worse than others.

"The issue spread from a new housing development near Kew with an infestation on imported trees used to landscape the area. It is across the Southeast with various other breakouts in the UK, it is widespread in Europe where it came from.

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"Thurrock used to be a Barrier Zone but this has now moved out further into Essex and we are now an established area like London. At first our spraying was funded by The Forestry Commission, we now pay as we are no longer a Barrier Zone.

"We have our infected Oak trees sprayed twice a year when the eggs hatch. This is at the time when the buds burst which gives the caterpillars something to feed on and they take up the pesticide. If infestations remain after spraying we carry out nest collections again with contractors.

"We only deal with Thurrock Council trees. The Forestry Commission survey and notify us of anything new they also pass on reports from the public, the most recent being Brown Tail Caterpillars not OPM when we investigated. Brown Tail Caterpillars are also active this year and are an irritant."

Residents with private trees are advised to contract specialist firms to deal with the problems. Among those in the region are Bartlett Tree Experts (01245 248033) [email protected]. They deal with Council OPM issues and are recommended by the Forestry Commission.

There are Forestry Commission grants available for private residents but the FC would need to advise on availability and funding criteria. The Forestry Commission are [email protected] they can answer any questions residents have.