Pembrokeshire County Council is erecting signs at its beaches warning bathers about the possible presence of Portuguese Man O' War jellyfish.

During the last couple of days, four of the creatures - which carry a poisonous sting in their trailing tentacles - have been found washed up on Amroth beach in the south of the county with another six on the water's edge.

Lifeguards spotted two more just along the coast on the South Beach in the popular resort of Tenby, with another three being spotted in Mill Bay near St. Anne's Head at the mouth of the Milford Haven waterway.

The warning notices, which are being erected at over 30 of Pembrokeshire's Blue Flag and Green Flag beaches, reads:

'Attention. Portuguese Men O' War jellyfish have been reported in the seas and beaches around Pembrokeshire recently.

'Please be vigilant when using the beach or swimming as they can give a severe sting when touched and in certain circumstances can lead to an allergic reaction. If stung, seek medical advice.

'It is always advisable to swim in lifeguarded areas where possible.

'If you sight or suspect you have seen a jellyfish, then please inform the lifeguard or contact a beach warden on the following telephone numbers: 07770 574242 or 07721 861005.'

Said council spokesman, Len Mullins: "The Portuguese Man O' War is a rare visitor to these shores and the chances of swimmers actually encountering one in the water while bathing are extremely slim.

"However, they do possess a sting said to be ten times stronger than an ordinary jellyfish and swimmers should be aware of their possible presence."

Earlier this year, the Man O' War was spotted off Spanish beaches for the first time in 10 years.

Treatment for the sting - which leave whip-like, red welts on the skin - involves washing the affected area with salt water and then applying ice to dull the pain.