Oh poor you try digging them out or and keep pulling them out. How old are the shrubs if under 2 years you might be able to dig it all up and replant the shrubs in the autumn?

They are well matured shubs and densly planted which is causing the problem. I wondered if putting weed-killer on the leaves would do the job?

If you dont contaminate your shrubs? Try painting the leaves and putting them in plastic bag until dry?