The first relatively mild, calm and sunny spring day finally arrived towards the end of March and on 22nd, I saw my first small tortoiseshell and peacock butterflies which was a real and much needed treat.

The following few days remained mild and sunny tempting out of hibernation many bees, flies, hoverflies as well as comma, brimstone and red admiral butterflies. So, spring was well under way but not for long as cold north easterly winds returned.

A problem may arise then, as many of the insects having hibernated and topped up energy reserves could find it difficult to locate another suitable hibernating spot and put them at risk from cold, frost and heavy rain.

However, all being well, small tortoiseshells ( pictured ) , comma and peacock butterflies will begin laying eggs on fresh emerging stinging nettle leaves soon.

Then, if the weather is favourable in late April, we should see orange tip butterflies on the wing and they, together with the brimstone, both light woodland species will home in on bluebells, Britain's favourite wild flower.

To sit quietly in a bluebell wood and watch those butterflies sipping nectar from the pendulous blooms is a magical experience.