GIANT hogweed was amongst the plants highlighted during a walk in Musselburgh to mark UK Invasive Species Week.

Led by Kristian Purchase, from East Lothian Council’s countryside rangers, the recent event was held in partnership with the Musselburgh Flood Protection Scheme.

A council spokesperson explained that the walk along the River Esk last month aimed to identify invasive non-native species (INNS) which naturally compete with native species for light, nutrients and pollinators – reducing biodiversity as native plants struggle to compete.

Giant hogweed was also hazardous to human health, they added.

The council spokesperson said: “Kristian gave advice on how to safely remove certain invasive species that are safe to do so without specialist equipment or training, and the team are looking forward to further events to support this work.”

They added: “East Lothian Council countryside rangers and amenities teams are working to manage giant hogweed in areas along the Esk, as well as support from East Lothian countryside volunteers, as part of their Giant Hogweed Eradication Programme, who are recording location and management of giant hogweed in East Lothian. People can find out more about the work of the volunteers at the programme website, elcv.org.uk/tasks/invasives/the-program”

Councillor Shona McIntosh, ward member, who went on the walk, later said: “It was great to learn from Kristian more about the impact of invasive species on the riverbank and what can be done about it. These walks are family-friendly and my seven-year-old was correctly identifying Himalayan balsam by the end of it, so it was a great way to spend the in-service day.

“I would encourage local residents of all ages to get involved in the future events planned through the summer.”