PEST control officers have been inundated with enquiries from people wanting wasps' nests to be removed their property.

Calls complaining about wasps in Lewisham have more than doubled, compared to this time last year, up from 288 to 601.

Officers have blamed the increase on the lack of late frosts which usually kill-off emerging queen wasps.

But, it is Lewisham residents who are feeling the sudden sting as hardy Greenwich residents have made an average of 800 calls complaining about wasps.

Lewisham Council has advised its residents, many of whom have a nest on their property, to leave it alone but seek professional advice.

A council spokesman said: "If the nest is not causing problems it is best to let it die with the first frosts.

"But, if it is causing problems, do not attempt to tackle it as this can be dangerous. Leave it to the professionals.

"The council provides this service for which there is a charge, but there are concessions for people on benefits.

"Because of the dramatic increase in nests this summer there may be a wait for treatment, so please be patient."

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