North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) has issued a warning after brown-tailed moth caterpillars were sighted in the Sunken Gardens and The Marrams in Cromer.

They were also seen at the bottom of Beeston Bump in Sheringham earlier this week.

People and animals should avoid coming into contact with them because they have spiked and barbed hairs that contain a toxin.

If the hairs break off, they can cause symptoms such as skin rashes, headaches and breathing difficulties. 

The caterpillars are brown and have red and white markings, and they are known for living in "tents" which they build from silk in trees and shrubs.

They usually grow into adults by mid-June and go into their chrysalis by late June.

An NNDC spokeswoman said: "The paths and Sunken Gardens remain open for people to enjoy.

"Visitors are asked to exercise caution, and signs have been erected to advise the public to avoid going near the nest or the caterpillars."

© Eastern Daily Press