AS so-called “spider season” approaches, new research by a Bordon developer shows that people in Hampshire would rather evict the eight-legged creatures than live with them.

A survey by housebuilder David Wilson Homes, which is developing new homes at the former Louisburg Barracks in Bordon, revealed that just 19 per cent of people in Hampshire would happily let a spider live in their house if they spotted one.

Conversely nearly half (43 per cent) would send it on its way, with the classic glass-and-paper-out-the-window trick.

It seems Hampshire residents are not shy in asking for help when dealing with arachnid invaders either, with 20 per cent admitting they would ask someone else to get rid of it.

David Wilson Homes’ sales director Michelle Storer was not surprised by the figures.

“As a nation we seem to find it difficult to shake our fear of spiders,” she said.

“What might bring comfort to those faced with a spider in their home is that the presence of spiders could be a sign that your home is in good health.

“Spiders are attracted to warm environments, particularly in the autumn and winter, so if you see one in your new home it could be a sign that it’s well insulated.”

One thing that brand new houses boast, she said, was good insulation.

A spokesman added: “David Wilson Homes likes to support local wildlife, even spiders.”

The beginning of September is traditionally known as the start of spider season, as the creatures head into the warm to find a mate. Despite spiders regularly topping the list of biggest fears, most are completely harmless, particularly those found in the UK.

The survey also shed light on other ways Hampshire residents deal with spiders in their home. Six per cent of respondents said they would get rid of a spider with a fly swatter, while just three per cent would use a spider trap. Other responses included using a vacuum cleaner and fashioning a makeshift catcher from a kitchen roll tube.