Climate change, intensive farming and urban growth are being blamed by conservationists for the decline in butterflies with some species on the brink of extinction.

The weather has also played a part in the drop in numbers - but it is not all doom and gloom for Folkestone, with areas such as the Warren and the Downs said to be some of the best places in the country to spot a variety of species.

Philip Green, project officer for Folkestone at the White Cliffs Countryside Project, is hoping that with warm weather on the way, their numbers will increase.

He said: “Almost any of the open chalk grassland around Folkestone is good for butterflies.

“Over the period April to September, more than 30 different species of butterfly can be found, including national rarities such as the adonis blue and wall brown and even the silver spotted skipper butterfly is making a return.

“Last year, which was particularly wet and windy was the worst for butterflies since recording began in 1988.”

For full story, including tips on how to attract butterflies to your garden, see this week’s Kentish Express out on Thursday.