HOUSEHOLDERS in Wales are being urged to take action now to reduce the risk of wasp and mosquito problems later in the summer.

Experts at the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) say two simple spring checks could help prevent gardens, sheds and homes becoming a breeding ground for pests.

Residents are being advised to look under eaves, inside sheds and garages, and around sheltered spots in the garden for early wasp nests. At this time of year, nests are often small — around the size of a golf ball — and can be dealt with before they become established.

People are also being urged to empty water butts, watering cans, buckets and any containers where rainwater may have collected over winter. Cleaning them out can help remove overwintering mosquito eggs.

Niall Gallagher, Technical Manager at BPCA, said: “These two simple steps in spring can make a real difference in the summer.

“Deterring wasps and mosquitoes from settling down and breeding in your garden means you’re much less likely to have problems with them later in the summer.

“You can’t keep them out, but a few visitors are much less hassle than thousands of insects that have moved in for the season.”

Wasps play an important role as pollinators and natural pest controllers, feeding on aphids and other insects. Where a nest is in a low-traffic area, BPCA says it may be best to leave it alone.

However, nests left to develop through spring and summer can contain between 5,000 and 8,000 adult wasps by late August. If one wasp senses a threat, it can release a pheromone which alerts the rest of the nest and may trigger a mass stinging response.

Removing an early-stage nest will not stop a queen wasp from building elsewhere, but it can encourage her to choose a site away from sitting areas, homes and places where children play.

Mr Gallagher added: “At this time of year, bumblebees, bees, wasps and hornets are all likely to become active again after the winter.

“All of these insects build nests that can look very similar, but each requires different methods to deal with any issues — particularly as a quarter of all bee species are endangered, so it really is important to ensure correct identification if a nest is found somewhere it shouldn’t be.

“If there is any doubt at all, we highly recommend getting in touch with a BPCA member for advice.”

Mosquitoes lay eggs in still water, including ponds, ditches, marshes, water butts, buckets and watering cans. Emptying stagnant water and cleaning containers can reduce the number of mosquitoes emerging as temperatures rise.

Mr Gallagher said most native UK mosquitoes pose little risk beyond itchy or swollen bites, although some people may suffer an allergic reaction requiring medical attention.

He added that climate change could increase the risk of non-native mosquito species becoming established in the UK.

Eggs from the Egyptian mosquito were detected for the first time in the UK at Heathrow Airport in September 2023, while Asian tiger mosquito eggs were found at a service station on the M20 in Kent in August 2024.

Anyone experiencing problems with wasps, mosquitoes or other insects around their property can contact a BPCA member business for advice.

BPCA member businesses are endorsed through the Government’s TrustMark quality scheme and must carry appropriate insurance. Technicians are trained, qualified, assessed to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636, and follow BPCA Codes of Best Practice.

For more information, visit bpca.org.uk/find.

CLASSICALLY trained Cardigan musician Rosalind Powell will perform a concert of original alternative pop songs next month in aid of Cardigan Extinction Rebellion.

The concert, Singing for the Future, takes place at St Mary’s Old School Hall, Cardigan, on Saturday, June 6, at 7:00pm.

Rosalind, who has a music degree from Cambridge University, is a composer, pianist and teacher of piano, singing and music theory.

The concert will show another side of her musicianship, with a programme of original songs drawn from her three albums, Sound Eagle, Circumference and Dragonfly.

It follows a successful recent launch event for Sound Eagle at the Cellar Bar.

Rosalind said: “Climate change and biodiversity loss are issues that I care deeply about, and I’m so pleased to be able to give my support through music.

“Our future is threatened by the climate and nature crises, but so many people are doing positive things to improve the situation and bring us hope. I’m glad this fundraiser will help towards that.”

Tickets will be available on the door, with a suggested price of £8, although those who cannot afford the full amount can pay less. Teas, coffees and cakes will also be available.

Rosalind’s Sound Eagle album recently received a warm review from The Pit London music site, which described it as “a dreamy and reflective world” and praised its blend of alternative pop, soft jazz influences and classical piano.

Rosalind said she has already been featured on 15 radio stations, will perform at Llangollen Fringe’s Music Around Town event in September, and is planning a West Wales tour later this year.

The concert falls on the first day of Great Big Green Week. Weather permitting, Cardigan Extinction Rebellion will also hold a street stall on Wednesday, June 10, giving away plants, seeds and information about gardening for wildlife.

Nobody injured after vehicle fire near A477 prompts emergency response

A CAR was destroyed by fire near the entrance to Redberth Croft on Tuesday evening (May 19), prompting a road closure while emergency services made the area safe.

The incident happened just off the A477 at Redberth, where a vehicle caught fire and rolled into a hedge and the new entranceway to Redberth Croft.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene and successfully extinguished the blaze.

In a statement shared on social media, Redberth Croft thanked firefighters for their rapid response.

The business said: “A huge thank you to the Fire Brigade for their swift response in safely putting out a car fire that rolled into our hedge and new entranceway at Redberth Croft.

“Thankfully nobody was hurt, and we’re incredibly grateful for the professionalism and quick action of the emergency services.”

Photos from the scene show the vehicle completely burnt out, with extensive damage to the engine bay and interior, as firefighters worked nearby.

Motorists were warned to avoid the area while the road remained closed for safety reasons.

Redberth Croft added: “Please be aware that this is just off the A477 next to our new entrance, and the road is currently closed while the area is made safe. Please avoid the area and take care if travelling nearby.”

It is not yet known what caused the fire or whether any other vehicles were involved.

Photo caption:

Burnt out: Fire crews at the scene after a car rolled into the hedge near the entrance to Redberth Croft (Pics: Redberth Croft)