BUTTERFLIES and other insects are set to dine in style as a result of a new project led by West Midlands Butterfly Conservation.

Volunteers from the charity have worked with Grow Cook Learn at the Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre in Craven Arms to create the county’s first pollinators’ garden and insect hotel.

The plants have been provided by local Shropshire business CJ Wildlife who are based near Shrewsbury.

Included in the garden are specially selected plants to attract insects plus a nesting area for solitary bees and other bugs.

Pollinating insects are in serious trouble in Britain which is bad news not just for wildlife but also for people who rely on insects, including butterflies and moths, to pollinate the food.

Already, the new garden is positively buzzing with insects including many butterflies.

“Gardens can never replace natural habitats but we can play a part in helping pollinators by growing plants which are rich in nectar and pollen,” said Mike Williams from West Midlands Butterfly Conservation.

“We hope that this demonstration garden will inspire visitors to follow our example and introduce a similar range of plants into their own homes. Butterflies are declining nationally and Butterfly Conservation are also looking to recruit volunteers to assist with a new project aimed at conserving the Wood White butterfly which has its stronghold in Shropshire and neighbouring counties.”

Catherine Collier, general manager of Grow Cook Learn and the Discovery Centre said the centre is pleased to be involved in the project.

“We are delighted to be part of this exciting project and are grateful to West Midlands Butterfly Conservation and CJ Wildlife for their support,” she said.