TWO dedicated Dorset conservationists are setting off from John O’Groats at the end of May to raise money for Dorset Butterfly Conservation.

At the end of May, Fred Franklin and Wren Franklin, are going to attempt to cycle from John O’Groats in Scotland to Land’s End in Cornwall – over 1,000 miles – to raise funds for the Dorset Branch of Butterfly Conservation.

Butterfly Conservation (butterfly-conservation.org) is a science-based environmental charity focussed on the conservation of butterflies, moths and their habitats.

Much of the practical conservation work of the charity is carried out by groups of volunteers organised into local branches. Dorset Branch is responsible for the management of three nature reserves – Alners Gorse near Hazelbury Bryan, Lankham Bottom above Cattistock (where the rabbit scene was shot in David Attenborough’s recent Wild Isles programme) and Broadcroft quarry on Portland.

Training for this arduous ride began back in the depths of winter, and as the days lengthen and the weather improves, the duo are increasing their miles in the saddle.

“A recent ride took us from Buckland Newton down to Swanage and back through the Purbecks,” said Wren.

“Using many of the smaller Dorset roads we totalled 86 miles. We aim to average similar daily mileage on our trip, although we must do it every day for two weeks.”

“A support vehicle has been provided by Mann Motorhome Rentals near Blandford Forum and kindly sponsored by Clive Farrell. This will be our accommodation en-route and transport to and from the start and finish, as well as a place to fill bellies and fix bikes.”

The pair want to see how many butterflies they can record along the way and hope to see many of the common spring and early summer butterflies of Britain.

You can donate to Wren and Fred’s cause and follow their journey at gofund.me/e3a1cf45.