Giant hogweed warning

FAMILIES in Dumfries and Galloway are urged to be vigilant of a large invasive plant that can cause a painful skin reaction over the school summer holidays.
Giant hogweed is commonly found along river banks, on waste ground as well as beside roads and train tracks.
It can grow as tall as a residential street light, with large flower spikes that appear from mid-June onwards and leaves that can span more than a metre.
Contact with the plant causes a severe skin reaction that is antagonised by sunlight and can result in painful blisters which emerge between 24 and 48 hours after exposure.
Offering advice on how to treat contact with giant hogweed, the NatureScot website states: “Cover the affected area, and wash it with soap and water soon as possible following contact.
“Keep the area away from sunlight for at least 48 hours (this includes sunlight on dull, overcast days).
“If you feel unwell after contact with giant hogweed, speak to your doctor.
“Protect the sensitive areas with sun-screen in the following months.”
Anyone who spots giant hogweed growing in parks, playing fields, footpaths or road verges, is encouraged to report it to the local authority.