WHEN it's a warm summer day, there's nothing like a picnic or barbecue in the sunshine.

But for many outdoor eating can quickly become a bit of a nightmare at this time of year with the buzzing sound of a wasp heading your way.

Wasps are normally natural pest controllers and tend to eat other insects.

During August and September, their attentions turn to sweet food making them much more of a nuisance.

But what can you do to avoid them spoiling your fun?

We've put together a few top tips for you.

How to check if there's a wasp nest near you According to the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), if you’re seeing a large number of wasps in and around your home or work, there’s probably a wasps’ nest or something substantial that's attracting them nearby.

A spokesman added: "Wasp nests’ come in many different shapes and sizes.

"They’re amazing pieces of architecture that can contain up to 5,000 wasps during peak activity in late Summer.

"They build their nest using chewed wood and saliva to make a papier-mache material."

Wasps are likely to make their nests in sheltered spots so you need to check: Under trees In bushes Under eaves In your shed or garage How can I stop them getting into my house?

The BPCA says prevention is always better than cure and has the following advice: Keep your windows and doors closed or use standard fly screens to stop wasps from getting in Keep your bins shut - Open bins will attract greedy wasps looking for a cheap, sweet meal.

Keep your bins away from the house and make sure the lid is on properly.

Check for nests early - You can check all the most likely spots of wasps each spring when the nests are tiny and easy to deal with. They’ll be about the size of a golf ball. Check the loft, garage, shed and under eaves.