Cross-Channel invasion by the hoverflies
By Helen Johnstone
(Filed: 03/08/2004)

A plague of hoverflies is causing misery for holidaymakers on Britain's south coast beaches. The hot weather and a favourable wind is blamed for the invasion from across the Channel.

	Hoverfly: harmless

The hoverfly, which is about half an inch long, is often mistaken for a wasp because of its orange and black body. Swarms of the insects have been tormenting people on the beaches of Essex and East Anglia.

Andy May, of the Essex Wildlife Trust, said: "They are attracted by bright colours, so they are getting confused and swarming round people in bright clothes.

"The flies are absolutely harmless, but really annoying."