A WARNING has been issued after Asian hornet nests were spotted in the New Forest.

The non-native species are known to kill honey bees and have a potent sting.

Richard Skinner, from the Hampshire Beekeepers Association, said: "Following active operations in the New Forest the NBU (National Bee Unit) were able to locate two nests which have both been destroyed and removed."

Advice from the Hampshire Beekeepers Association said: "The Asian hornet (Vespa Vellutina) is non-native to the UK and is ‘reportable’, which means that by law any sighting must be reported to the appropriate authority."

READ MORE: 'Bee killer' Asian hornets in the UK: What to do if you spot one

It added: "On no account should you approach or attempt to remove an Asian hornet nest.

"This insect has a highly potent 8mm sting that is not barbed, so she can and will sting repeatedly and the pheromones released will summon her nest-mates to join the attack."

It's understood the nests were found in a person's garden in Dibden Purlieu.