Why spiders invade houses at this time of year

Arachnophobia sufferers will be relieved to learn that the spider season ends around the start of October

Spiders are making their way indoors for mating season (Nick Ansell/PA)

While seasonal change can be marked by the cooler weather and browning leaves, there is one other sure way of knowing when autumn is around the corner – spider season.

Dozens of social media users have reported seeing eight-legged creepy crawlies in their homes in recent weeks, with some posting pictures of the arachnid invaders.