Residents across Lewes are being urged to dispose of their Halloween pumpkins responsibly amid warnings that discarded carvings could cause serious harm to wildlife.

Lewes District Council is reminding households that leaving old pumpkins in woodland, parks or public green spaces is not a helpful way of feeding wild animals and could actually make them ill.

While some people may believe that leaving leftover pumpkins outdoors provides a seasonal treat for wildlife, the council says the practice can have unintended consequences.

Pumpkins are not a natural food source for many native animals, including hedgehogs, and eating large quantities could cause digestive problems.

The council is encouraging residents to dispose of their Halloween decorations through food waste collections or composting facilities rather than leaving them in the countryside.

Discarded pumpkins can also attract unwanted pests and create additional problems in public spaces as they begin to rot.

With thousands of pumpkins expected to be carved for Halloween celebrations this weekend, residents are being encouraged to think about what happens to their decorations once the festivities are over.

Households can help protect local wildlife by keeping woodland and green spaces free from discarded food and making sure pumpkins are disposed of appropriately.