Sudden rise in warmth puts UK in the grip of greenfly plague

Huge swarms of the aphids have been spotted sweeping across Britain, splattering into windscreens and peppering people's faces and clothing.

The sudden explosion in sightings is believed to be the result of the sudden rise in temperatures after the coldest May in 14 years.

Another explanation could be a shortage of ladybirds, their traditional predator, owing to the cold spring and gardeners have been warned that the insects could ravage plants and vegetation.

Official figures due to be released next week are expected to confirm the greenfly explosion.

Kate Cobb, 23, an eye clinic liaison officer in Leeds, said: "I can't believe how many of these greenfly I have seen around.

"I took my dog for a walk in the park and I got absolutely covered and he must have swallowed loads of them because he coughed some up."

Matt Shardlow, chief executive at The Invertebrate Conservation Trust Bug Life said: "Cold winter took out predators like lacewings and ladybirds, meaning there are less predators at the start of the season and greenfly are so fast at breeding they can put the foot on the accelerator and get away before other insects.

"I'm sure they are not popular for gardeners but it is fantastic for nature – lots of food for ladybirds, lacewings, hoverflies and birds."