One of the biggest threats to the smooth running of HM Naval Base Clyde may have met its match at last.

The irritating midges which plague outdoor workers at the home of Britain’s nuclear deterrent on Gareloch all year round. Are facing up to the threat of a ‘midge magnet’.

The Ministry of Defence Guards suffer as much as anyone, as they are required to carry out their duties in rain, snow, wind or even shine.

Swats and sprays have been tried, but now the midges face a hi-tech solution.

The midge magnet – not actually a magnet, of course – pumps out carbon dioxide, then sucks it back in, taking in t he midges and killing them at the same time.

It works on the principle that the midges are attracted to humans in the first place by the carbon dioxide in the air we exhale.

The machine, which is powered by propane gas, can rid an area the size of a football pitch of the pests – and ironically looks like a portable barbecue, one of the chief sources of delight for the insects as they have ruined many an al fresco meal in the area.

“This isn’t a new problem,” said Faslane public relations officer Alan Dignon.

“Generations of midges have feasted on our guards, year in, year out. When the midges are at their most aggressive, their attacks are worse than any snow or rain.

“The new magnet could be the answer to the guards’ prayers.

“We’ve done our research, and in no way does this machine represent a threat to the Scottish midge population at large. There are still plenty more out there... waiting.”