The Royal Parks is warning visitors to Bushy Park to be cautious of sudden branch fallings in the park.

The charity said: "During this period of extreme dry and windy weather, the trees across the parks are suffering more stress than usual, so there is an increased risk that they may drop branches suddenly.

"We advise that visitors are mindful of this when sheltering under trees during the next few weeks, especially on windy days."

The issue relates to a phenomenon called Sudden Branch Drop Syndrome, also known as summer branch drop, which is where healthy-looking tree branches unexpectedly break and fall, often during calm weather.

This usually occurs after a period of hot and dry weather followed by rainfall and is thought to be linked to internal water pressure and heat stress.