In the last 80 years, three of Britain’s 24 species of bumblebee have become extinct, according to the Natural History Museum.

But now in Maidstone a group of concerned residents is hoping to give the bumblebee a helping hand.

Led by Dr Guy Tanner from Square Hill Road, Maidstone, the bee-lovers are looking to see what can be done to improve habitats for the insects - and for other wildlife.

The humble bumblebee is vital to the future of the human race. It is one of the key pollinators that helps produce the food that we eat, but they are under threat.

They need flowers to feed on - and a combination of countryside loss and modern farming methods is reducing the number of flowers available.

Dr Tanner, who has a PhD in life sciences and is a retired consultant in environmental management systems, will be manning a stall at the next Maidstone Repair Cafe event in the Market Hall off Barker Road on Saturday, April 6, where he hopes to attract more supporters.

He said: “We call ourselves the Maidstone Bee Team and our aim is to draw the attention of local people to the importance of the Medway Valley as a green corridor for wildlife and people, right in the heart of Maidstone.

“People who join us there will get the chance to be in at the start and to discuss opportunities for grass-roots action to help preserve our bees.”

Dr Tanner has his eye on a piece of scrubland between the river towpath and the Gallagher football stadium, home to Maidstone United.

He said: “Since bumblebees are distinguishable by their black and gold stripes, and since black and gold are the colours of the Stones football strip, it seems an ideal place to start!”

Dr Tanner said: “At 2.30pm on April 6, we will set off to see for ourselves how the Medway Valley at Maidstone looks from the point of view of the bumblebee.

“What opportunities are there for the queen in spring looking for nest-sites? Are there pollinator-friendly flowers for pollen collection and for workers to refuel on their journey? What are the obstacles along the way?

For more information, you can visit the group’s Facebook page Bee The Change - Maidstone and Medway Valley.

Or you can email guyrtanner@gmail.com

Dr Tanner said: “We welcome anyone who would like to join us. All ideas are good ideas!

“Together we can create a brighter future.

“Come along and help us create a programme to make Maidstone a better place for people and wildlife.”