A BUTTERFLY population rescue project on Exmoor, Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor has been shortlisted for a national award.

The Campaign for National Parks teamed up with the Government’s Year of Green Action to find the best projects that make a difference in national parks and present them with Park Protector awards.

The winner of the Park Protector Award will receive a £2000 grant towards their work, while the winner of the Year of Green Action Award will receive £1,500. 

The Butterly Conservation project, called ‘All the Moor Butterflies’, is one of six shortlisted for the 2019 Park Protector Awards to be announced on Wednesday (July 10).

Corinne Pluchino, chief executive of Campaign for National Parks, said: “The projects are each making an outstanding difference in some of the most famous countryside in the world.

“They are more vital than ever, when the natural world is under threat like never before.

“From introducing asylum seekers to the Yorkshire Dales to rescuing endangered butterflies, it’s testament to the power of the national parks that they are inspiring people to make our countryside a better place for all.”

Butterfly Conservation works to improve the fortunes of declining fritillary butterflies across Dartmoor, Exmoor and Bodmin Moor. South West regional manager Jenny Plackett said the registered charity, which has branches around the country, was “absolutely delighted” to be shortlisted.

“We have been working alongside dedicated farmers and landowners to increase the quality and extent of suitable breeding habitat, and it would be wonderful if our partnership efforts were to be recognised with this Park Protector Award.”

‘All the Moor Butterflies’ fought off stiff competition as this year saw the highest number of applicants in the competition’s history.

Stephen Ross, of award sponsors the Ramblers Holiday’s Charitable Trust, said: “This year we’ve had an unprecedented number of high quality applicants. Judging has been exceptionally tough and, because of that, I know what we have here are some of the very best projects run by the most passionate people.

“I wish there was a way to award every project.”

National Parks Minister Lord Gardiner of Kimble said: “From my experience travelling the diverse and beautiful landscapes of the parks, I know that there is work to be done, whether that is work to enhance nature or introduce more people than ever to the glory of the countryside.

“But I also know that very challenge is being embraced by projects up and down the country.”