A WARNING has been issued after infestations of caterpillars capable of causing temporary blindness have been spotted across south Essex.

Parks, trees and areas of green land in Thundersley and Southend have become populated with thousands of brown-tail moth caterpillars.

Each creature, which is native to England and often emerges at this time of year, is covered in tiny barbed hairs that can cause rashes, breathing difficulties and eye infections.

Retired police officer Gordon Sinclair said: “Personally speaking I have not come into contact with them, but have seen them on a tree which is next to a children’s playground opposite the old Swans Green Hall in the Rundels, Thundersley.

“I knew they could be dangerous to children with asthma plus cause irritation to most people if the hairs touch the skin.

“My concern is the children in the playground, so I contacted Castle Point council and spoke to Tony Dovaston in the environmental health department who said he will deal with it.

“Hopefully the council will get on top of it because Tony does acknowledge my concerns and he knows the dangers.

“No doubt a lot of people like me would be concerned due to the area being a children’s play area.”

The infestations have also been spotted in Southend’s Warrior Square at the heart of the borough and on trees and bushes near Tesco on Princes Avenue, Southend.

The caterpillars, which will eventually become pure white moths, are covered in the barbs to deter predators, but on a windy day the barbed hairs can fly off and cause skin inflammation and respiratory problems if inhaled.

They can, in some cases, also cause temporary loss of vision.

Castle Point councillor Bill Sharp confirmed the council is aware and added: “I will chase this up with Tony as soon as I can after the bank holiday.

“These things are a terrible pest and must be eradicated.”

If you are affected and concerned about symptoms you should contact NHS Direct or your GP for further advice.