MONMOUTHSHIRE residents have been warned of the effects of giant hogweed after reports that the toxic plant is spreading.

The weed contains chemicals in its sap which irritate skin, leading to severe burns and blistering.

The effects of touching the plant do not appear immediately, but often become visible within 24 - 48 hours.

The plant looks similar to cow parsley, and can grow up over 15ft tall.

Giant hogweed has been spotted in various areas , with plant sightings being reported near Raglan, Ross-on Wye and Usk.

Nigel Leaworthy, Commercial & Operations Manager of Waste & Street Services at Monmouthshire County Council said: “ We have an ongoing schedule of eradication for both giant hogweed and knotweed infestations on council-managed land only.

“Once areas are identified we add them to the schedule and spray until eradication is complete.

“We would welcome all notifications from the public of giant hogweed and knotweed infestations that are deemed to be on council-owned land. ”

Stuart Craxford, Biodiversity officer at Natural Resources Wales said:

“Individual landowners are responsible for controlling invasive species, but we provide support where there is an impact on protected sites, flood schemes or where it is likely to seriously affect water quality or wildlife.”