BOURNEMOUTH residents would rather evict spiders from their homes than leave them alone.

Nineteen per cent of residents would happily let a spider live in their house if they spotted one.

However, 43 per cent would send it on its way using the glass and paper trick, according to a survey carried out by housebuilder David Wilson Homes.

While 20 per cent admitted they would ask someone else to get rid of an unwanted house guest.

Michelle Storer, sales director at David Wilson Homes, said: “As a nation we seem to find it difficult to shake our fear of spiders. What might bring comfort to those faced with a spider in their home is that the presence of spiders could be a sign that your home is in good health.

“Spiders are attracted to warm environments, particularly in the autumn and winter, so if you see one in your new home it could be a sign that it’s well insulated.”

Six per cent said they’d get rid of a spider with a fly swatter, while just three per cent would use a spider trap. Other responses included using a hoover, fashioning a makeshift catcher from a kitchen roll.

The beginning of September is traditionally known as the start of spider season, as the creatures head into the warm to find a mate.

The house spider is the biggest of Britain's spiders, with some reaching an overall size of 12cm. It's one of the only species to match a large body with large thick legs.