DAVID Wilson Homes Mercia is planting a range of bee friendly plants in Tenbury in an attempt to help support the threatened pollinators.

Bee-friendly plants are those which produce lots of nectar and pollen, and include hardy geraniums, poppies, lavender, heathers, foxgloves and fruit trees.

The developer has pledged to plant bee-friendly flowers and shrubs in the gardens of its sales centres and show homes to help boost bee numbers.

Honey bees and the many types of wild bee such as bumblebees are under threat from loss of habitat, weather and disease and their importance is often underestimated.

One in three mouthfuls of food that humans consume is reliant upon pollination, including strawberries, apples, pears, chocolate, sweet peppers, chillies, margarine, mustard and herbs.

The initiative has been welcomed by the RSPB that works to protect birds.

"We are asking everyone to help give nature a home as even a few small touches can make a big difference for wildlife,” said Andy Waters of the RSPB in the Midlands.

“Gardens can be a fantastic space for families to relax or play, and we would like to see people feel inspired to do something for nature after they visit one of these show homes in Tenbury.

"Sadly the UK's bee populations are in decline, but planting the right mix of flowers, shrubs and bushes will help reverse this. And, plants rich in nectar and pollen will not just be welcoming to bees, but will look great for homeowners who want a garden full of life and colour."