People are being warned not to leave pumpkins in gardens and parks after Halloween.

Northumberland Wildlife Trust has issued a reminder for the public to be cautious with their pumpkin lanterns after Halloween ends.

The trust said that all too often pumpkins are left on the ground in gardens, parks, and green spaces for animals to eat.

Although they are not harmful to birds, they can be 'extremely dangerous' for hedgehogs.

Northumberland Wildlife Trust has issued a reminder for the public to be cautious with their pumpkin lanterns (Image: Pixabay) Geoff Dobbins, Northumberland Wildlife Trust's reserves manager, said: "As a conservation organisation, we are always encouraging people to look after hedgehogs, especially in the winter, so it is great that people think they are helping them by leaving their old pumpkins outside, however, unfortunately, it is the wrong type of food for them.

"They may enjoy it, it may be the equivalent of gourmet dining, but it will make them very poorly, so please do not do it."

The trust also said that pumpkins can attract rats, smother wild plants and grasses, and build up nutrients in the topsoil that can lead to the growth of invasive plants.

The trust suggests composting the pumpkins, burying them in a deep hole, or using them to make pumpkin bread, muffins, or soup.