Biddulph has one of the highest occurrences of Japanese knotweed in Staffordshire, according to an interactive map published by an invasive plant specialist.

The map published by Environet shows that areas within a 4km radius of Biddulph have had 21 reported sightings of Japanese knotweed - the joint second highest total in Staffordshire (excluding Stoke-on-Trent).

Only Cannock had more sightings of the invasive plant, with 23, while Burton joined Biddulph in second place with 21 sightings.

The interactive online heatmap is designed to track Japanese knotweed sightings around the UK, with around 50,000 known infestations around the UK currently reported on the map.

The plant is native to Asia but was brought to the UK in the 19th century, and is now considered an invasive species.

It grows and spreads quickly, and can be a menace to homeowners and gardeners, causing damage to properties and preventing other plants from growing.

Environet explained more about why it is important to remove Japanese knotweed on their website with the top six problems the plant can cause. They are:

1. Protect your Assets - Knotweed will make it more difficult to sell an affected property, impacting its value by an average of 10%. Half of would-be buyers will walk away from a property known to be infested with knotweed. Sellers are required by law to disclose the presence of knotweed – if they don't, they risk an expensive misrepresentation claim in the courts.
2. A Growing Problem - Knotweed is programmed to grow, its underground rhizome system extending year on year, infecting more ground. It's a problem that simply won't go away on its own, so the sooner it's tackled the better.
3. Nuisance Neighbours - Knotweed does not respect property boundaries and those who allow it to spread also diminish the value of their neighbour's property. This can lead to neighbour disputes and costly civil claims under private nuisance legislation.
4. Damage - Knotweed can and does cause damage to property. Perhaps not as bad as some might make you believe, but don't under-estimate the damage the plant can wreak.
5. DIY Disasters - Knotweed and building or landscaping projects don't mix! If you want to add that conservatory, summer house or home office pod to the garden, tackle the Japanese knotweed first.
6. The Heavy Hand of the Law - And for those who are still not convinced, be aware that an injunction or Community Protection Notice, otherwise known as an ASBO, can enforce people to act to remove knotweed from their property

If you would like to view the interactive map yourself, view the Environet website here.