LOCAL conservation experts have issued a warning to locals to not dispose of unwanted Halloween pumpkins in the countryside.

Representatives of Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park said that although 'a well-intentioned idea,' leaving pumpkins out in the countryside, woodland, and green spaces is not healthy for animals.

They said: "Pumpkins are particularly nasty for hedgehogs, causing upset stomachs, diarrhoea, dehydration, and possibly death.

"The best way of disposing of them is in your garden or food waste bins, or your own compost bins."