Rare orchids mown down

A council has apologised for destroying rare bee orchids that were about to flower in West Sussex.

This happened despite the fact a special ‘do not mow’ request was sent to the council in February, and another sign put by residents concerned for the rare flower, according to local press.

A council spokesman said: “Only a small area of the verge was cut before we were made aware the area should stay as it is. We’re sorry about this and are reviewing how we identify sites that do not need cutting in the future to make sure all our workers are aware.”

At least a separate bank of wild orchids on the corner of Portway and Penlands Vale was protected with an official Notable Road Verges sign.

Sections are mown ‘to give better visibility for cars’.

If this treatment of precious wild life makes you fume, then you can sign up for the worthwhile Road Verge Campaign.

By Pamela Kelt