Eggs of a mosquito capable of carrying the zika virus have been found in a village near Folkestone.

But council leaders have moved to play down fears to public health, insisting 'there is no danger to people or pets.'

The Asian tiger mosquito eggs are thought to have been discovered at a service station on the M20.

Fifteen householders in the village of Stanford were hand-delivered letters informing them of the discovery.

One resident, Samantha Fox, told the Mirror: "I expected them to come round in big suits and great big spray guns but it was all very quiet.

"It's just something they have to do. They sprayed the water butt and anything that might collect water.

"They said the spray creates an oil film and suffocates the eggs.

"I don't mind them doing it if they're careful. We've got to protect our own species but you have to be careful about what they are spraying in to the water."

David Monk, leader of Shepway District Council, said: "Following the discovery of some eggs of a mosquito that is not normally native to the UK, Public Health England has recommended that the council follow standard practice and carry out a treatment as a precaution to prevent the mosquito establishing.

"There is no risk to people's health or their family or pets from either the presence of the eggs or the eradication.

"The council's pest control contractor will carry out a spray treatment of anywhere where the mosquito eggs may have been laid."