Looks like a type of spurge or euphorbia to me which can be a complete pain. Does it drip with milky white sap when snapped off ?

You may have to spray each individual plant with a glyphosate based weed killer such as round up. You can also paint roundup onto the leaves if spraying is difficult.

It has quite a woody stem, so I have not noticed if it drips that sap. I'll check that later this morning.

Thanks for the help.

becareful the latex type sap can cause burns especially if exposed to sunshine [well we do get some sun sometimes :o)]

I have a mark on my face from one such experience 15yrs ago. it never fades :o(

I also think its a type of Euphorbia. good plant in the right place though.

but on closer inspection the centre doesnt look right. Does it produce yellowy green flowers in the spring? If yes then it is Euphorbia.

to me the leaves look too shiny and leathery for Euphorbia, but I don't recognise it. Look at the size of that plant compared with Somhairle's (?) arm.

The plant will grow to the size of a small rhodie. And spreads like a wild one too!

It does produce flowers late in the year - if I remember. To be honest, I pull these things out before they get that far. From memory, the flowers are pale yellow/green and on a long spike. It is difficult to describe from memory.

The leaves are like bay.

I have just read how poisonous this plant is! I am amazed! I have been pulling this out by my bare hands for years! Now I know what has been causing the blisters and irritation on my skin!

Thanks everyone for your help!