Look for 'savage' beetle species, Titchmarsh warns

Alan Titchmarsh with a model of the Colorado potato beetle at the Chelsea Flower Show

TV gardener Alan Titchmarsh has urged the public to keep an eye out for a beetle which he said posed a threat to the British potato industry amid an outbreak of the invasive species in Kent.

The Colorado beetle, which feeds of the foliage of potatoes and other plants, was confirmed in Kent after a laboratory diagnosis in 2023 and marked the first known case in the UK in 50 years.

Officials hope that the outbreak can be eradicated by the end of the year, but warned the public to remain vigilant to the threat.

Speaking at the Chelsea Flower Show, Titchmarsh said: "It devastates potato crops and we need all the crops we can get in this country."

Colorado potato beetles were spotted for the first time in 50 years in Kent in 2023

He added: "It's so savage, it'll wipe crops out. It's like locusts. It's that fast."

Titchmarsh said the secret was to "stamp it out before it becomes reality", adding: "There's so much waiting on the doorstep."

Colorado beetles can weaken crops, such as potatoes and aubergines, and reduce yield.

Those who spot the insect are urged to catch it in a container, if possible, and contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) with a photo and location details.

The 6mm to 11mm beetle, which does not represent a risk to human health, is yellow or cream with 10 black stripes, and an orange head with irregular black spots.

The beetles have been known to be imported into the UK on plants, such as leafy vegetables, salad leaves, fresh herbs, grain and frozen vegetables.

Prof Nicola Spence, chief plant health officer at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, said: "Colorado beetle poses a significant threat to plants and the wider potato industry.

"The public have an important role to play in helping us take swift and effective action to protect UK biosecurity."