ARACHNOPHOBIC residents in Pembrokeshire can call a pest professional for help, says national trade body British Pest Control Association (BPCA), but spiders are best left alone, or removed to a sheltered spot if needed.

Experts at BPCA say spiders might sneak indoors as the weather turns colder, and while trapping and releasing them in a suitable shed or outhouse is the quickest way to tackle the problem, 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 is Technical Manager at BPCA. She 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.

Natalie added: “Spiders have an important role to play in our natural eco-systems, 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.

“A BPCA member will have the knowledge required to ensure the infestation is contained as much as possible and have access to a range of specialist products that are not available to the public.”

BPCA members are trained, experienced professionals who are regularly assessed to the British Standard in Pest Management BS EN 16636 and endorsed by the Government via the TrustMark quality scheme.

To find a professional pest controller visit bpca.org.uk/find

WHY not join the Milford Haven Business Circle for a thrilling Halloween evening of mediumship and live music at Milford Haven RFC on Thursday, October 31.

Doors open at 6:30pm, with tickets available online, at Cast n Craft Fishing for Health on Charles Street, or at the door for £5 per person.

The evening features an engaging performance by renowned medium Nathan Roberts, followed by a dynamic musical set from Chris Didcote. All proceeds will support Prostate Cymru and the local Community Access Defibrillator Fund.

This cause holds special significance following an incident on Friday, October 11, when two MHBC members were dispatched to a cardiac arrest within Milford Haven via the GoodSAM app.

Thanks to prior fundraising efforts, these members provided immediate pre-hospital care to the patient using one of the community’s defibrillators until ambulance services arrived.

The event highlights the ongoing need for accessible defibrillators, underscoring the life-saving difference they make in emergencies.

Enjoy an evening of entertainment and community spirit while supporting a vital cause.

THE MAYOR of Milford Haven, Cllr William Elliott BA QTS, and the Christmas Together Committee are thrilled to announce the upcoming Christmas Together 2024 event, now in its thirteenth year.

Set for December 25 at Pill Social Centre, Cellar Hill, Milford Haven (SA73 2QT), this cherished event opens its doors to those who might otherwise be alone on Christmas Day—often one of the loneliest days of the year.

The festivities will start at 11:00am, featuring carols, a quiz, Bingo, and a complimentary three-course Christmas lunch in a setting filled with warmth and companionship. The event will conclude around 5:00pm, with free transport available for guests unable to attend otherwise.

Mayor Elliott expressed his enthusiasm, saying: “As Mayor of Milford Haven, it is my absolute pleasure to host Christmas Together this year. This event was originally created by Cllr Guy Woodham during his term as Mayor. Due to health reasons, Cllr Woodham is unable to run this year’s event, and I am honoured to step in and help ensure Christmas Together 2024 is another great success.”

Reflecting on his involvement, Cllr Guy Woodham, founder and Chair of Christmas Together, added: “While it’s disappointing that I can’t be directly involved this year, I am delighted that the Mayor, alongside his Consort, Lloyd Jones, has taken on the hosting duties. With Cllr Colin Sharp, Committee Member and Chair of the Pill Social Centre, and our dedicated volunteers, I am confident this Christmas will be as joyful, fun-filled, and companionable as ever.”

Guests and volunteers are invited to secure their spot by Wednesday, December 18. Application forms are available from Cllr William Elliott at Christmas Together, 44 Bunkers Hill, Milford Haven SA73 1AG, via email at [email protected], or by calling 07747 141019. A limited number of forms can also be collected from the Torch Theatre Box Office and Pill Social Centre.

For those wishing to support or donate to Christmas Together, please use the contact information above. This event is fully funded by the generosity of its supporters.