Killer Asian hornets ‘set to invade Britain’ as temperatures soar in three-month heatwave
The pests' stings can cause anaphylactic shock
KILLER Asian hornets are set to invade Britain as the country faces a sizzling three-month heatwave.
The pests can chew through protective clothing and their stings can cause anaphylactic shock.
Nests have been found in New Alresford and Brockenhurst in Hampshire’s New Forest tourist hotspot, leading to fears that families could be attacked.
The hornets have already killed five people in France and hibernating queens will soon be waking up in the UK.
Christine McClellan, of the Isle of Wight Beekeeping Association, told the : “It is vital that we increase the urgent awareness to this impending disaster."
The best way to avoid a hornet attack is to crouch low to the ground, experts say.
The West Dorset Beekeepers’ Association says it is a “matter of when, not if” the hornet establishes itself permanently in Britain.
Association chairman Caroline Dilke said: “Last year, six nests were spotted in this country and destroyed before they could gain a foothold by producing fertile queens.
“Any day now, queen hornets will be emerging from hibernation.”
Experts also fear that the hornets' arrival will be dangerous to the eco-system.
Brits look set to bask in a three-month heatwave - with highs of 26C possible next month.
Plumes of warm air from Africa are expected to send temperatures "well above average" for spring, with bookies slashing odds on Britain's hottest ever spring.
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