Warning after toxic plant spotted on island beach

Beachgoers on the Isle of Wight are being urged to take extra care after further sightings of a highly toxic plant.

Hemlock Water Dropwort – also known as Dead Man's Fingers – was first spotted at Bembridge by coastguard teams several weeks ago.

The council said it had now been alerted to new sightings and has warned that touching it could result in a painful rash.

The plant is extremely poisonous and can be fatal to humans and animals if eaten.

"People using the beach should take extra care while this is being dealt with," Isle of Wight Council said.

"Hemlock Water Dropwort poses a fatal risk to humans and animals, including dogs, if it is eaten.

"The plant attacks the central nervous system and symptoms include trembling, sickness, convulsions, unconsciousness and respiratory failure."

Anyone who sees the plant is being urged to report it using the what3words app so it can be geolocated for the Environment Agency.