BEACH-GOERS have slated Bournemouth council over its refusal to remove dangerous caterpillars from bushes near the seafront.

They claim they have repeatedly warned the council about the health risks posed by brown tail moth caterpillars.

But they said nothing has been done to prevent people from getting irritating rashes which last for several days.

Grandmother-of-six Jean Parker has been suffering from a rash for more than a week and said she and her family have been unable to use her beach hut, near the Bistro on the Beach at Southbourne.

"The rash is terrible and the last time the caterpillars were this bad my whole family was ill" said Jean.

"I warned the council weeks ago when I first saw the nests but it was like talking to a brick wall. It's too late now because the caterpillars are out and they're all over the place."

Beach hut owner Sarah Phillips added: "I warned the council about a month ago and nothing has been done. I have children aged eight and 10 and I am worried about taking them to the beach.

"I am also a childminder and I have been unable to take those I look after to the beach either. My friend's 10-year-old son is totally covered in a rash."

Members of the public are being advised not to touch the caterpillars as their hairs, which readily break off, contain a toxin which can remain active for up to five years after being shed.

They can also trigger headaches and, more rarely, breathing difficulties and eye problems.

Seafront operations manager, Andrew Brown, told the Daily Echo: "The exceptionally warm weather recently means that brown-tail moth caterpillars are experiencing a breeding boom across the UK.

"Sightings of the caterpillar near the beach can be reported to a member of the seafront team on 01202 451781 or via email to bournemouth.seafront@bournemouth.gov.uk

"Anyone with health concerns should seek advice from the NHS on 111 or their GP."