Members of the public have been warned to keep off recreation grounds in a Powys town for the rest of the month as weedkiller spraying takes place.

A statement from Welshpool Town Council warned residents to keep children and pets off the grass at Maesydre while the end of season works were carried out.

The statement said that no fixtures or training would be possible on the pitches until October, but that the clubs who use the facility have been informed.

"With the agreement of the clubs involved Welshpool Town Council will be carrying out the end of season ground works (which) will be beginning on Maes y Dre recreation grounds from Monday 20th September 2021," said a spokesperson.

"This will involve using weed repressant on all playing surfaces.

"There will be no fixtures or team training sessions until Saturday 2nd October 2021.

"We advise that it is essential that all members of the public, children and pets stay off the Maes y Dre recreation fields during this time."

Nearby residents have expressed concern about the announcement via the town council's social media page, with some questioning how the work fits in with the town council's recently announced biodiversity strategy.

The strategy, made public in August, set out how the council can support habitats in the town including the two Sites of Special Scientific Interest and one Special Area of Conservation that exist in Welshpool but which are not managed by the council. It was described by the town council at the time of its release as "more than just warm words", representing a serious commitment to the town's wildlife.

Town mayor Alison Davies said in response: "For your information no 'chemical blasting' is planned nor indiscriminate use of herbicides.

"It may be that you wish to see full details of the works. If this is the case, a detailed description and explanation can be provided, as an entry to a more constructive dialogue. "