A TREE pest has been discovered outside of London and its neighbouring counties – suggesting the species is moving further north. 

Members of the public are being asked to remain vigilant after a number of oak trees in the Long Eaton area of Derbyshire were confirmed to be infested with oak processionary moth (OPM).

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The trees are currently being treated and extensive surveillance work is ongoing to further investigate the findings and to direct appropriate control measures to prevent their potential spread.

Officials say "swift and robust action" is being taken to identify the source of the outbreak, which has happened outside of OPM’s established area in London and some neighbouring counties. This includes implementing a rigorous management programme with the aim of eradicating the pest from this area, and extensively monitoring sites in the surrounding area through a programme of ground surveys and pheromone trapping.

Nicola Spence, UK chief plant health officer, said: “We are taking swift and effective action to treat the infested trees and to eradicate the pest from this area and prevent further spread in the surrounding area.

“The Government takes the management of Oak Processionary Moth very seriously and has a robust programme in place to reduce the level of pest prevalence and protect oak resource, whilst supporting landowners to manage the risks associated with OPM in the areas where it has been identified.”

Members of the public in Long Eaton and surrounding areas across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire are urged to be especially vigilant and check for any signs of their own oak trees being infested, including those recently planted. OPM caterpillars have black heads and grey bodies covered in long white hairs, and they usually move nose-to-tail in a procession. OPM nests are typically dome or teardrop-shaped, averaging the size of a tennis ball. They are white when fresh, but soon become discoloured and brown. 

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If you spot the pest, report the sighting, with photos as supporting evidence, via the TreeAlert portal. Alternatively, you can email opm@forestrycommission.gov.uk or call 0300 067 4442. 

Oak processionary moth (OPM) is native to southern Europe and is an insect pest of oak trees. It was first detected in London in 2006 and has since established in London and some surrounding counties, with the rest of the country designated a Pest Free Area.