A public meeting is being held tonight amid fears over an invasion of killer beetles.

As many as 22 trees have so far had to be felled after being infested with the larva of the Asian longhorn beetle.

The discovery of the beetle lurking inside a poplar tree in Paddock Wood last month was the first outbreak of the non-native species in the UK.

It prompted Fera (Food and Environment Research Agency) and the Forestry Commission to warn the outbreak could have serious consequences for Kent's trees.

Residents and landowners will be able to hear what is being done to tackle the problem at the meeting at the Hop Farm.

So far, 22 trees in Paddock Wood are infested with the larvae of the beetle, with a further five trees highly likely to be infested.

The infested zone - an area within a 330ft radius of each infested tree - covers about 20 acres.

The infested trees are being felled and more trees checked.

John Morgan, head of plant health at the Forestry Commission, said: "It is vital that action is taken now to prevent the spread of this potentially extremely damaging, non-native pest of broadleaved trees.

"Scientists and inspectors from Fera and the Forestry Commission have now largely completed the initial survey work and are now overseeing the felling of both infested and non-infested host trees in the infested zone. We are grateful to local landowners and residents for their cooperation and help."

The beetle poses a serious threat to a wide range of broadleaved trees and shrubs, including elm, horse chestnut, willow, poplar, birch and some fruit trees.

The Asian longhorn beetle was found in Paddock Wood. Picture: Forestry Commission/George Gate

An adult beetle was first found in Paddock Wood in 2009 and, though scientists have been monitoring the site since, this is the first evidence of an infestation.

It is thought the beetles originated from wood packaging used to import stone from China at a nearby industrial site.

Anyone who suspects they have seen an Asian longhorn beetle is asked to phone the Fera Plant Health Helpline on 0844 2480071.

The beetles are not harmful to humans, but they should be handled with caution as they can nip the skin.

The meeting takes place in the Whites Conference Suite at the Hop Farm, Paddock Wood, from 7pm.