‘A disturbing wave’: midges threaten tourist trade in Italian town

Takings in Orbetello, Tuscany, down 60% as thousands of midges torment locals and tourists

Authorities in a Tuscan town have urged residents to close their windows and refrain from hanging out washing as they tackle a plague of midges that has been tormenting locals and tourists for weeks.

Restaurants and bar owners in Orbetello, well known for its lagoon and long stretches of sandy beach overlooked by Monte Argentario, say business has been badly hit as customers avoid venturing out for dinner.