Huge spiders are invading Yorkshire homes - and this is how to keep them out

People afraid of spiders (isn't that all of us?) dread the beginning of September, the official start of Spider Season™. -> Large cannabis farm discovered by police in Leeds Spider season began early this year - in the middle of August - thanks to the recent warm weather. Now the mating period is in full swing, and people have been sending in photos of their new arachnid lodgers from across Leeds, Sheffield, Hull, Wakefield, Doncaster and many other parts of Yorkshire. But what can you do to keep eight-legged friends at bay?Keep your house clean and airy Spiders love dark, damp, cluttered places. Vacuum and dust regularly, and don't allow clutter to build up. Store things in plastic lidded boxes rather than cardboard ones to prevent spiders gaining access. Keep your house filled with natural light Never leave blinds or curtains closed during the day or for prolonged periods of time if you're away from home. Use essential oils Spiders 'smell' with their legs, so strong scents will deter them from leaving their nooks and crannies. Tea tree, rose, cinnamon, citrus, peppermint, citronella, lavender and eucalyptus can all work - make sure you spray corners, window sills and skirting boards, and replenish regularly. -> Wetherspoons is slashing prices at all of its Leeds pubs for one day only Borax This pest control product is designed to kill ants, but it also works with spiders. Sprinkle it in corners and along door frames to prevent webs. Seal cracks Grab your caulking gun and seal up spider access points in walls, floors and ceilings. Keep foliage away from your house Don't allow plants next to your home to creep too close, as spiders will hide in them. Similarly, don't allow leaf litter, woodpiles etc to accumulate, as they make great spider hiding places. Get a cat A feline will fearlessly chase spiders - although you can't always guarantee a successful outcome! But don't use conkers! There's no evidence that they're effective. Other strong aromas are likely to work better, such as garlic or vinegar.Chalk Spiders taste with their feet - and they don't like chalk. Draw a chalk line around windowsills, your bed, or doorways, and they won't want to cross it. -> Tributes paid to tragic dad and Leeds United fan who died on dream wedding night