GARDENERS are being warned to beware of exotic plants that are threatening to invade Kingsmead.

Kingsmead Parish Council has been quoted thousands of pounds to remove bamboo that has spread from gardens and is destroying community space.

Speaking at the latest parish council meeting Cllr Chris Reed said: "In Waystead Close it's come through the fence to our land and has lifted the paving there.

"Some of these things are 20ft high and as thick as your wrist in places.

"Contractors say it will cost us thousands to get rid off."

The council has been told it could get the bamboo trimmed back to that it is more under control but that specialist contractors will need to be brought in to help where the bamboo is causing disruption to paths.

Cllr Reed said: "It's amazing when you walk around how much bamboo there is."

The council is advising residents that there are two types of bamboo, clumping and running, and is advising residents to avoid planting running bamboo.