Trust invests in Peak grasslands

Bee and butterfly populations in the Peak District have been given a lifeline by the National Trust, which has bought 460 acres of wildflower-rich land.

The £2million deal for the equivalent of 260 football pitches in the heart of the White Peak will see rich hay meadows and wildlife rich grassland join neighbouring land to create 1,342 hectares – about two square miles – of nature-friendly landscape.

The area is home to a diverse range of grasses and flowers, plus an enormous number of insects and invertebrates, small mammals and birds, creating an ecosystem that supports a complete food chain.

The geology of the area is ideal for flora including the early purple orchid and yellow mountain pansy – the perfect home for bees, butterflies, birds, hares and newts.