Many of you have literally been struck by the recent onset of the huge hairy creepy crawlies in your home.

It appears "spider season" is officially under way, invading homes across the UK in the hope of finding a mating partner and a warm place for the colder months.

But they are causing havoc as they are large enough to set off burglar alarms and can trigger panic attacks for people who suffer from arachnophobia, an extreme fear of spiders.

Creepy-crawly news

While the best practice is in fact to leave them alone, what can you do if you simply cannot live with them?

Here are some top tips on spider removal from the pest control experts at Rentokil:

  • Vacuum regularly, high and low - particularly sheltered spots such as beneath worktops, backs of cupboards or under/behind large furniture.
  • Remove noticeable webs on a regular basis.
  • Fill in gaps - in walls, around pipework and under doors to deter entry.
  • Remove sheltering sites - like firewood piles, garden bags, compost piles and general clutter from near your property.
Claire Harkins Massingham found this creature in her home on Tuesday (August 29) night
  • Deter all insects - use lighting in a way that is less attractive to the insects (flies) that spiders feed on.

You can also give these additional methods a try to keep the eight-legged creatures out!

  • Use conkers or horse chestnuts in the corners of the room to deter spiders. There is some form of chemical that repels them.
This was one of two found (and killled) within hours by Fred Pintaldi
  • Peppermint oil, tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil. Mix 15-20 drops with water in a spray bottle, then spray down corners, cracks and entrances to your home. The smell will chase them out.

Meanwhile there has been a mixed reaction to the spider invasion and here are some of the more recent comments made on Getwestlondon's Facebookpage:

Giant spiders invading homes - this one was found in the living room

Sharon Kaur Rattan wrote: "Had my spider on my bedroom window saw it when closing the curtains. I was so scared couldn't believe how big it was. Felt so sick!!!"

Janet Butler and Mark Gardiner were among many people who have posted photos of the hairy creatures found crawling arounfd their homes.

Mark Gardiner posted this picture of a creepy crawly

Kelly Potter wrote: "Just tried to catch 1 running across my living room, might have to move out."

Share your photos of giant spiders in your home with us by sending an email to surreylive@trinitymirror.com

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