The classic bluebell, adored and treasured by many, normally blooms from early April to the end of May. However, the bluebell has been flowering all over the UK over a month earlier than usual. It was seen in February in Wales, Dorset and Surrey, amongst others.

Experts are blaming climate change with ever warmer temperatures early in the year. It was not the only flower to bloom early this year with National Trust gardeners spotting Calistemon and a Clianthus, both of which traditionally flower around April - May time, and a Tibouchina urvilleana, which shouldn’t appear until June!

This has been the sunniest February on record. The bluebell is one of Britain’s favourite flowers and Britain is one of its few remaining strongholds in Europe, however, its survival may be threatened with changing weather patterns.