Venomous snakes have been sighted in two seaside villages – and experts are warning people to keep their distance.

The adders were found in Seascale and Ravenglass last week.

Simon Taylor, who often walks his two dogs at Seascale, said an adder lashed out at him last week.

“I’ve seen a lot of adders in the past and they never usually strike out, as long as you keep away from them,” he said.

“But this time I was walking along the path by the boatyard where there is long grass and I didn’t see the snake until it was too late. I stepped on it and it lashed out at me.

“Luckily I managed to jump out of the way.”

The 44-year-old now wants to warn other people to be on the lookout for the snakes and avoid getting too close to them.

As well as Seascale, adders have also been sighted at Ravenglass.

Rachael Thompson has taken pictures of them across the viaduct, sunning themselves on the railway enbankment.

Experts say the adders, which are the UK’s only snake with a venomous bite, are not harmful unless disturbed. They are urging dogs and children to stay away from the reptiles in case they accidentally step on one as they will most probably strike in self-defence.

There have been a number of instances in the past where adders have injured, or even killed, dog sin west Cumbria from their bite.

Dog expert Jody McQuiston has previously urged owners to be extra vigilant and keep away from sand dunes in hot weather.

This time of year adders are more susceptible to striking as they are wakening up, and will be lying out in the sun, and you can be on top of them before you realise, she said.

“Adders will avoid you if at all possible, as they are quite timid creatures,” Jody added.

“Most adder bites occur between April and July.”

An RSPCA spokeswoman added: “Adders will only use their venom as a last resort, and only attack if they’re harassed or threatened. They generally keep out of the way of people.”