RESIDENTS are being advised to take steps to stop a maggot infestation ahead of a heat wave expected in the coming weeks.

Harrow Council wants residents to wrap food, particularly from barbeques, in paper before throwing it away to stop insects using it to lay eggs.

Councillor Susan Hall, responsible for environment services, said: “Obviously the warm weather is bringing lots of people out into their gardens.

“Unfortunately the remains of a barbeque can be a bug's delight – but we can hopefully keep a lid on maggots if householders can remember to wrap their waste.”