GARDENERS in the region are being invited to take part in a national survey looking at the welfare of butterflies and moths.

Butterfly Conservation, a charity aimed at saving butterflies and their habitats, is conducting the study in the North-East and North Yorkshire.

The organisation wants to involve everyone with a garden, yard or window box.

Over the last 50 years, many species of butterfly and moth have declined dramatically in numbers and variety.

The conservation group wants to know what species are in the region's gardens so that progress can be monitored and help given to halt the decline.

Surveys manager Richard Fox said: "The beauty of this new survey is its simplicity.

"The free survey pack includes a butterfly identification pack and lots of gardening advice. It is really easy for anyone to do, and everyone can take part."

The survey has been supported by celebrity gardener and vice-president of Butterfly Conservation, Alan Titchmarsh.

The garden butterflies count will run until the end of October.

For a free survey pack send your name, address and age (if under 18) to: Garden Butterflies Count, Butterfly Conservation, PO Box 232, Melksham, Wiltshire SN12 7SB, or call 0870 043 3896.