Brits warned: Huge spiders 'size of human hand' on the rise after record breeding year

Pest control experts have warned Brits to be on the lookout for giant house spiders this autumn, with the creatures set to invade homes in search of food and shelter.

Experts at Pest.co.uk said the UK is facing a bumper crop of the spiders, which can grow to be the size of a human hand, after a summer of warm, wet weather.

The spiders, which are not venomous but can give a nasty bite, are typically found in dark, damp places such as lofts, cellars and garages. However, they are also known to enter homes in search of food, particularly during the autumn months when the weather turns colder.

Pest control experts are urging people to take steps to prevent the spiders from entering their homes, such as sealing up cracks and gaps around windows and doors, and keeping their homes clean and tidy.

If you do find a spider in your home, experts advise you to avoid trying to kill it, as this could provoke it to bite. Instead, try to trap it under a glass or container and release it outside.

Here are some tips to help keep spiders out of your home:

• Seal up cracks and gaps around windows and doors.
• Keep your home clean and tidy.
• Vacuum regularly, especially in dark, damp places.
• Store food in sealed containers.
• If you see a spider, try to trap it under a glass or container and release it outside.