Arachnophobic residents in Warrington worried about an influx of spiders can call a pest professional for help.

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) has said that while spiders are best left alone, or removed to a sheltered spot if needed, pest professionals are on hand to help.

Experts at the BPCA have said that as the weather turns colder, spiders might start to sneak indoors.

While trapping and releasing them in a suitable shed or outhouse is the quickest way to tackle the problem, the BPCA has said that they will disappear in a few months if left alone.

However, BPCA members are on hand for anyone who has a severe phobia, or who believes they may have an allergic reaction to a spider bite from species such as the False Widow Spider.

Natalie Bungay, technical manager at BPCA, said: "Native spiders are not considered dangerous or a threat to health, but pest professionals are on hand to help anyone who suffers from arachnophobia if spiders are becoming a nuisance.

"Calls for False Widow Spiders tend to peak in October as numbers increase during the winter months and then they become more conspicuous as the males wander in search of a mate.

"False Widow Spiders are venomous but not aggressive - bites generally seem to occur through accidental contact.

"They can be very painful but are no more dangerous than a wasp sting."

For most spiders, trapping them under a glass, sliding a stiff piece of paper underneath, and releasing them in a garage or shed is all that is required.

Ms Bungay added: "Spiders have an important role to play in our natural ecosystems, so releasing them in a sheltered place where they won’t succumb to the cold is generally the best alternative if you can’t quite cope with them inside the house.

"However, if spiders are becoming a nuisance, you have a phobia, or believe you are likely to have a severe reaction to a spider bite, we’d recommend you seek advice from a pest professional."

To find a professional pest controller, visit their website.