More than 3,000 people have now signed a petition calling on Island Roads and the Isle of Wight Council to think again about returning to the use of a controversial weedkiller.

In 2021, 183 people made 221 complaints about weeds, between July and August 2021.

Among those opposing a return to using Glyphosate is broadcaster Chris Packham, who tweeted: "221 complaints is apparently all that's needed to reintroduce Glyphosate onto the Isle of Wight - absolutely bonkers!"

The complaints followed a decision to spray fewer chemicals last year, and to use non-glyphosate-based herbicides and a dedicated team of 12 people, who hand weeded, with traditional tools.

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Island Roads said it could not meet its contractual obligations and over the same three months in 2019 recieved 14 complaints, and 47 in 2020.

It said it would return to using chemicals from this spring, while continuing to research alternatives.

The move was backed by the Isle of Wight Council.  

Thousands have now added their names to a petition that aims to 'stop the use of glyphosate weedkiller'.

Those worried about weeds say they are a safety and trip hazard, especially for those who find it hard to walk, while signatories to the petition are fearful about Glyphosate's impact on the environment and bees, which are already declining.