THE nasty burns and sores suffered by the local youngsters who brushed against giant hogweed in Moses Gate Country Park serve as a timely reminder about Nature’s power.

We tend to forget that some plants have natural defence mechanisms, and the sap of the giant hogweed is particularly toxic. The teens suffered bad blistering and may even face scarring after the incident.

Bolton Council states it tackles all cases of giant hogweed as soon as it is aware of them. But this is a plant that grows wild and free all over our area so, plainly, they can’t deal with it all.

It’s up to us – especially during the long Summer holidays when children are out and about and more adventurous – to be aware of the dangers that Nature can hold.

Now that people know what the hogweed looks like, hopefully we won’t get a repeat of this upsetting event.