Local butterfly population 'holding its own' says conservation group 

But IoM says UK study is of little significance here 

A local conservationist says the Island's butterfly population is 'holding its own' but some species are in need of help.

Garry Curtis from Manx Butterfly Conservation believes a recent UK survey - which indicated numbers are on the rise - should be treated with a degree of caution.

The Big Butterfly count, which took place over two weeks this summer, suggested numbers were at their highest for four years.

But Mr Curtis told Manx Radio he believes the study is of little real significance: