An Asian bug called psyllid is to be released to control the growth of one of the UK's most virulent weeds.

Japanese Knotweed, which was originally brought to the UK as an ornamental plant, has now become a big problem for gardeners and builders as it wreaks destruction to gardens, foundations, roads, walls and drains.

The bug psyllid is capable of preventing Japanese Knotweed from growing fast as it feeds on the invasive weed.

According to the wildlife minister Huw Irranca-Davies, Japanese Knotweed costs the country as much as £150 million per year.

Speaking on the topic, Irranca-Davies said, "This project is not only ground-breaking; it offers real hope that we can redress the balance.”

The World Conservation Union has included the Japanese Knotweed in the list of world's 100 worst invasive species.