Thousands of holidaymakers stung by the UK's most poisonous fish

AFP/Getty

This summer, more than 1,000 UK holidaymakers have been stung by the country's most poisonous fish: the weever.

Marine experts believe that warmer sea temperatures, caused by the spring heatwave, have led to an increase in numbers in the venomous fish - and the amount of incidents is expected to rise.

Weever fish have always been a hazard in the South-West, but this year people have been stung as far afield as Hastings on the South Coast and Scarborough in North Yorkshire.

The weever, which is more venomous than many jellyfish and as poisonous as the stingray, immerses itself in the sand and, if any dark shadows appear over it, it will release its sting.

The small fish, which is usually less than 6cm long, then injects its victims with a fast-acting poison through its dorsal fins.

The pain from the sting is said to be excruciating, leaving the foot red and swollen. The fish's spine can also break off in the foot, causing severe discomfort until it is removed.

Experts say that the best way to avoid being stung is to wear some form of footwear, like jelly shoes, on the beach.

If you do get stung, the best way to relieve the pain is to put the affected area into water as hot as you can stand without causing scalding.

The heat helps to break down the poison and increases blood flow to the area, causing natural cleansing and healing.

Click on the image below to see some of the best beaches in the UK. But if you decide to visit, look out for those weever fish...

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