RESIDENTS across Warrington are being encouraged to report any signs of the toxic plant, Giant Hogweed.

The plant can cause long-lasting damage to the skin, including blistering and intense reactions when exposed to sunlight.

Birchwood Councillor Nigel Balding has warned residents of the dangers of the plant, as well as the emergence of Japanese Knotweed across the town, too.

Warrington Guardian: Cllr Balding has reported signs of Hogweed in CroftCllr Balding has reported signs of Hogweed in Croft

Cllr Balding said: "Of the two plants, giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) is the one that is most dangerous.

"The sap of Giant Hogweed is phototoxic and causes phytophotodermatitis in humans, resulting in blisters and scars."

Cllr Balding has compiled a list of nearly 30 different council-owned areas that have reports of Japanese Knotweed, including areas from Birchwood, Rixton, Woolston, Latchford, and Penketh.

There are also reports of the toxic Giant Hogweed on Eastford Road in Bewsey, and Forrest Way in Great Sankey.

Warrington Guardian: Cllr Balding says that Japanese Knotweed seems to be spreading in areas across WarringtonCllr Balding says that Japanese Knotweed seems to be spreading in areas across Warrington

Warrington Borough Council has said that costs of treating these two notifiable species on its land between 2017 and 2021 increased from £2,430 to £6,885.

A spokesperson said: "The increase in costs reflects the increase in locations treated for the two weeds."

Cllr Balding said that with a more rigorous herbicide treatment programme in place, Warrington locations should now gradually be cleared.