GOVERNMENT officials say that a nest of Asian Hornets - which are a risk to bees and pollinating insects - has been discovered at Brockenhurst in the New Forest.

The sighting of the invader insect was confirmed and the nest destroyed on September 26.

The hornets pose no greater risk to human health than the UK hornet or bees.

But the threat they pose to pollinators means sightings must be reported so the National Bee Unit (NBU) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) can find and destroy active nests.

Chief Plant Health Officer, Nicola Spence, said: "It is crucial you report any possible sightings so our experts can take quick and effective action to eradicate Asian hornets."

The Brockenhurst nest has since been destroyed.

It is one of six nationwide which have been eradicated.