Kent scheme to save bumblebees proves a success

A Kent scheme to reintroduce short-haired bumblebees to the UK has been hailed a success, with new sightings reported.

The species vanished from the UK in 1988, due to habitat loss, and was officially declared extinct in 2000.

Conservationists say three short-haired bumblebee workers were spotted at the RSPB's Dungeness nature reserve, where the scheme is taking place.

The project involved experts collecting queen bees from Sweden, where the species is often seen, and releasing them at the reserve.

Sightings have increased over the last three year, with recent sightings reported for four consecutive days.