Toxic hemlock plants found at city beauty spot

Hemlock, of the type pictured here, can cause a rash on the skin or burning on the eyes

A warning has been issued to dog walkers after highly poisonous hemlock plants were found at a city beauty spot.

Visitors to Holywell Ponds in Longthorpe, Peterborough, are being warned to take caution after the plants were recently identified on the land.

Hemlock, which looks similar to cow parsley with clusters of big white flowers, a tall slender stem, and green leaves, is one of the most toxic plants to humans and animals and can be fatal if ingested.

Peterborough City Council said it is “working to eradicate these nuisance weeds”, but the process could take up to five years because the plant is self-seeding.

In the meantime, signage has been installed to make people aware along with relevant safety advice.

The ponds are tucked away on the edge of a residential area and remain open to the public. However, visitors have been advised not to touch or ingest the plants, or allow children or dogs to run through long vegetation.