Arachnophobes in Worcester are being urged to use a glass to trap unwanted spiders in their homes.

Experts at the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) have said that spiders may seek refuge indoors during the colder months.

However, they should be left alone to disappear in a few months or trapped and released in a sheltered spot.

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The BPCA said anyone with a severe phobia or potential allergic reaction from a bite, such as from the False Widow Spider, should seek professional help.

Natalie Bungay, technical manager at BPCA, 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."

The BPCA said most spiders can be dealt with by trapping them under a glass, sliding a piece of paper underneath, and releasing them in a garage or shed.

Ms Bungay added: "Spiders have an important role to play in our natural ecosystems, 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.