Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

One of Europe's largest venomous spiders spotted in UK

The discovery has sparked both curiosity and concern.

largest venomous spiders

Macrothele Calpeiana

University of Granada

In a surprising discovery, one of Europe’s largest venomous spiders, Macrothele calpeiana, has been found in the UK. The spider, which is native to southern Spain, was spotted in a West Sussex nursery after being transported to the country in a shipment of olive trees. Known for its striking size and long legs, this funnel-web spider is a rare sight in the UK, prompting both intrigue and concern among locals.

The spider was first seen by a forklift driver at the nursery, who noticed the large arachnid moving through the yard. Specialists later identified it as Macrothele calpeiana, one of the largest spiders found in Europe. Its bite, although venomous, is not known to be fatal to humans. Experts have reassured the public that while the spider’s venom can cause painful symptoms such as swelling and irritation, it poses no serious threat.


The Macrothele calpeiana spider typically resides in southern Europe and builds funnel-shaped webs in the ground to trap its prey. Though it is primarily an insect-eating species, it is known for its large fangs, which allow it to deliver venomous bites when threatened. Encounters with humans are rare, as the spider tends to avoid human activity.

This discovery is the latest in a series of notable spider sightings in the UK. Previously, there were reports of the noble false widow spider (Steatoda nobilis), another venomous species that has established a presence in the country. While its bite can also cause discomfort, it is not considered dangerous to humans.

Though the UK is home to more than 650 spider species, venomous spiders are rarely a cause for concern. Experts advise the public to stay calm, as these spiders are unlikely to pose significant risks to human health. Authorities are monitoring the situation to ensure the spider does not become an invasive species.

More For You

Minouche Shafik

Shafik served as deputy governor for markets and banking at the Bank of England between August 2014 and February 2017.

Reuters

Starmer appoints Minouche Shafik as chief economic adviser in reshuffle

Highlights:

  • Minouche Shafik named chief economic adviser to Keir Starmer.
  • Darren Jones moves into Downing Street role; James Murray replaces him.
  • Wider reshuffle includes changes in Starmer’s private office and communications.
  • Appointment comes ahead of a budget expected to include further tax rises.

Prime minister Keir Starmer has named Minouche Shafik, a former deputy governor of the Bank of England, as his chief economic adviser. The appointment comes as he looks to strengthen his team ahead of what is expected to be a difficult end to the year.

Keep ReadingShow less
Ganpati festival

The Ganpati festival celebrates Ganesha as the god of new beginnings, and the god of wisdom and intelligence. (Photo: Getty Images)

Getty Images

Hindu community centre in London damaged in fire after Ganapati Visarjan event

A HINDU community centre in east London caught fire on Saturday evening, causing major damage to the building. The London Fire Brigade brought the fire under control and confirmed that no injuries were reported.

The incident took place at the Shree Sorathia Prajapati Community Centre on Cleveland Road in Ilford, which had been decorated for a Ganapati Visarjan event attended by members of the Hindu community.

Keep ReadingShow less
HSS (UK) celebrates five decades of shaping leaders through SSV

HSS (UK) celebrates five decades of shaping leaders through SSV

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (UK) has achieved a significant milestone, celebrating the 50th anniversary of its flagship leadership development programme - Sangh Shiksha Varg (SSV), with a record-breaking attendance of 605 participants supported by 139 volunteers, representing its highest attendance to date and demonstrating the enduring appeal of traditional value-based education and leadership training.

Participants travelled from 65 towns across all four home nations of the UK, whilst 167 working professionals willingly sacrificed their annual leave to serve as instructors and support teams to ensure smooth running of the camps and invest in the next generation's development.

Keep ReadingShow less
wasim bashir

Bashir retired from the force while under investigation but will still face misconduct proceedings. (Photo credit: West Yorkshire Police)

West Yorkshire Police

Former West Yorkshire Police officer jailed for misconduct

A FORMER West Yorkshire Police officer has been sentenced to two years and three months in prison after being convicted of misconduct in a public office.

Wasim Bashir, 55, who worked as a detective constable in Bradford District, was found guilty of one count of misconduct in a public office for forming a sexual relationship with a female victim of crime. He was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court on Friday, 29 August.

Keep ReadingShow less
Epping protests

Protesters calling for the closure of The Bell Hotel, which was housing asylum seekers, gather outside the council offices in Epping on August 8, 2025. (Photo: Getty Images)

Getty Images

Over a dozen councils plan legal action despite Home Office court win

Highlights:

  • Court of Appeal has overturned injunction blocking use of Epping hotel for asylum seekers.
  • Judges say human rights obligations outweigh local safety concerns.
  • At least 13 councils preparing legal action despite ruling.
  • Protests outside the Bell Hotel lead to arrests and police injuries.

MORE than a dozen councils are moving ahead with legal challenges against the use of hotels for asylum seekers despite the Home Office winning an appeal in the Court of Appeal.

Keep ReadingShow less