COUNCIL workers have been working hard to try to save habitats.

Since officially designating itself a pollinator friendly county, Worcestershire County Council and its partners have taken a number of steps to ensure habitats are not destroyed.

Declining numbers of all types of pollinators including bees and their habitats have been seen throughout the United Kingdom.

Councillor Anthony Blagg, deputy leader and cabinet member for environment said: "Becoming a pollinator friendly county is extremely important not only for the good of our countryside but there are also direct economic reasons for protecting these species as they are vital for crop production.

"Pollinators have been affected by a number of issues including a decline in habitat, caused by the intensification of land use, pests, invasive species, inappropriate use of chemicals and climate change.

"Together with our partners we have been working consistently over the last 12 months to address these issues, whether directly in our County Council operations, or through better education and information.

It is 12 months since Worcestershire County Council become a pollinator friendly county.

On Friday October 14, the first Worcestershire Pollinators Conference was held at The Hive, to look at some county council initiatives as well as those by partners including Natural England, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust and Wyre Forest District Council.

The event also saw the launch of a new pollinator garden at the CrownGate shopping centre.

Cllr Bragg added: "It is also extremely reassuring that commercial operations like CrownGate have come on board and indicates just important these issues are.

"Everyone can do their bit, even if you have a small or no garden. Putting a pot of pollinator friendly plants on your window sill can make a difference."

Pollinators are seen as vital to food supplies as well as their economic value to the country being estimated at over £200million per year.

As part of the scheme, the council has spread information on biodiversity to help residents and businesses play their part in increasing local habitats, promoting bee keeping and planting pollinator friendly plants.

Pollinators include various species of bees, butterflies, moths, beetles and hoverflies.

In the UK around 70 fruit, vegetable and cereal crops are insect pollinated.