FRIENDS of the Lake District are recruiting an army of volunteers to fight an ‘alien’ invasive species that ‘smothers’ the area’s indigenous plants.

The group is gearing up for a ‘big balsam bash’ on July 16 to remove Himalayan balsam, a non-native plant that reproduces rapidly and spreads quickly, around Grasmere, Rydal and Under Loughrigg.

A spokesman from Friends of Lake District said: “It’s a huge problem and there’s no easy way to tackle it.

“Elbow grease and the energy and enthusiasm of willing volunteers are the most effective tools in fighting this alien invader.

“Himalayan Balsam is a pesky little blighter and will stage a come-back so we’ll need to continue the fight to see it off completely.”

According to the group, the majority of the work will involve pulling balsam by hand and breaking the stem at the root.

“It’s not technical so anyone who’s physically mobile can do it,” said the spokesman.

“Skilled and qualified brush-cutters will also be on site to do the jobs that would be too time-consuming for hands.  It’s a very satisfying task!”