Members of the East Midlands Branch of Butterfly Conservation, which is celebrating its 21st year, work tirelessly to protect the Grizzled Skipper and other endangered species.

On the eve of Save Our Butterflies Week, Branch organiser Bill Bacon said: "There are many areas of Rutland that retain fascinating butterfly colonies.

"The aim of Save Our Butterflies Week is to raise awareness of the massive declines in butterfly numbers and to appreciate those butterflies we still have."

Towards the middle-end of the summer nature lovers can start to spot the more common butterflies such as the Holly Blue, Meadow Brown, Ringlet, Gate Keeper, Red Admiral, Peacock and Comma which frequent gardens.

Mr Bacon said: "Butterfly numbers are down this year which we think has something to do with the wet summer last year.

"People can encourage more butterflies into their gardens by planting food and nectar plants such a Budlia and Ice Plants, or by leaving a patch of grass that is unmowed and free from weed killers. Nettles are great for attracting butterflies but as Rutland is so rural, a walk in the countryside is a great way to spot them."

Rare butterfly breeds that have also been spotted in Rutland include the Black Hair Streak and the Camberwell Beauty which was spotted at a garden in Uppingham.

Mr Bacon said: "If you spot a rare butterfly in your garden visit the website and call the local officer to report it."

During the week, the East Midlands Branch of Butterfly Conservation will be organising a series of events. A list is available from www.eastmidlands-butterflies.org.uk