BOLTON health bosses have renewed their warning to people to be on the lookout for giant hogweed which can badly burn the skin.

The plant, which can grow up to 15 feet tall, has already caused severe burns to one person in Bolton.

In an effort to prevent more cases, Dr Robert Aston, Bolton's consultant in communicable disease control, has issued a warning for people to be on their guard.

The hogweed is predominant along river banks and this year is a common sight along the banks of the Tonge, Croal, Irwell, Eagley Brook and in the Jumbles.

Two years ago the National Rivers Authority - now the Environment Agency - embarked on a 15 year campaign to spray the plants along these rivers with herbicide, but the effects will not be apparent for several years.

The weed has stems with purple blotches and has umbrella shaped flower clusters. The leaves are like very large rhubarb leaves with an indented and pointed outline. They are very hairy and the bristles are needle-like and large.

In the latest edition of the fortnightly information bulletin issued by the Department of Public Health Medicine, Dr Aston, says:

"It is unmistakable because of its size and dramatic appearance. They are features, however, which make it particularly appealing to children.

"Unfortunately, these features also make it a striking addition to gardens and I know of cases where it has been deliberately planted."

Skin contact with the plant, and especially with the sap, can cause severe dermatitis, which is made worse by exposure to sunlight. If exposure occurs the skin should be thoroughly washed with soap and water. It is also important to get right away from exposure to sunlight as soon as contact with hogweed is suspected.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.