A 'RECORD BREAKING' number of visitors turned out for the opening day of New Ferry Butterfly Park's new season over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Around 1,400 people attended, which ccording to the park's honorary secretary, Paul Loughnane BEM, was the highest attendance to date.

Several species of butterfly were spotted, including Brimstones, Orange Tips, Speckled Woods, Holly Blues and Commas.

A new feature unveiled this year was a series of six bespoke tiles on the brick pillars of the silver jubilee entrance gates.

Nigel Lanceley, Deputy Lieutenant of Merseyside, unveiled the tiles and spoke about the dedications behind each tile.

Tiles were dedicated to individuals or groups who have significantly helped the Park.

The tiles artworks were created by Freya Levy and as well as being turned into tiles, the art works are also available as greeting cards.

Paul said: "Nigel Lanceley was most impressed by what he saw, as was Dr Charles Neame, the Vice-Chair of Cheshire Wildlife Trust.

"Both commented that it was a most engaging community event which reached out to all people of all ages and circumstances, bringing them into contact with wildlife and environmental issues in an appropriate and accessible way.

"Charles said that it is what Cheshire Wildlife Trust is all about. The new tiles which add such a final touch to the Silver Jubilee Gates and history to the park are splendid and so appropriate."

There was an array of displays from slow worms via spiders to owls and even a skunk, together with Girl Guides, jewellery, a wonderful plant sale, investigating plant pollinators, smoothies by bicycle, children’s activities, homemade cakes and a BBQ.

Being the early May Day Bank Holiday weekend there was also Maypole dancing.

According to the event's organiser "Guests all left with the smiling faces of having had a good day out".

The Park is now open every Sunday 12noon- 4pm until the second Sunday in September. The Wirral Wildlife plant sale continues weekly whilst stocks last.