PARTS of Gwent are feeling the sting of a huge increase in bee and wasp activity this summer.

Torfaen and Caerphilly councils say complaints of nests and swarms have shot up by over 400%.

Pest controllers are blaming the mild winter and warm spring for the surge in numbers.

Torfaen has handled 726 cases since April, compared with 172 last year. Caerphilly officers are taking an average of 30 calls a day - four times the figure for 2003.

And at the Newport Eisteddfod volunteers from St John's Ambulance said far more visitors sought help with wasp and bee stings than anything else.

They said a pest control worker at Newport council told them it was one of council's busiest years ever.

Gareth Williams, principal officer for public health at Torfaen council, said: "The biggest single factor in the high number of wasps and bees is the mild winter."

A warmer winter and fewer spring frosts helps more hibernating queens survive to start nests and colonies.

Mr Williams, whose team of three remove nests and exterminate swarms, added: "It's caused us a lot of work and overtime. It's taken quite a toll on staff to get the jobs done within a five working days deadline.

"Wasps like to nest anywhere quiet and chew wood to build their homes, so they need a source of raw material. We've found them everywhere: under eaves, in holes in masonry, in trees, hedges, underground and inside chimney stacks. With the sunny weather people are spending more time outside and are noticing wasps more."

Torfaen council uses protective suits, pesticides and carbon monoxide to tackle wasp nests. It charges £35 to remove a nest and those on income support pay £12.

Monmouthshire council reported no rise in incidents. Blaenau Gwent council said it hands all bee and wasp work to contractors. Newport council was unavailable for comment.

FACTFILE

Honey bees die after stinging once, but bumblebees, hornets and wasps can sting repeatedly.

Those who are allergic to foods and pollen have a higher chance of a sting allergy.

Bee stings should be removed with a scrape of a credit card of fingernail. Do not attempt to pull them out as more venom could spread into the wound. Apply ice to soothe.

Avoid flowery perfumes and bright clothing with floral designs. Insect repellent is a useful deterrent.

Move away slowly for bees and wasps. Do not panic and do not attempt to swat them. Honey bees sting mostly in defence.