SPRING has now officially sprung as bluebell flowers come alive around Colchester.

One of the best places in the country to see the flower is at Hillhouse Wood, West Bergholt, where the different selection of woodland types make the site perfect for the flower.

The bluebell is perhaps the UK’s most well known wildflower and they are found in ancient woodlands.

Although still common, the biggest threat to bluebells in Britain is the loss of their habitat and the uprooting of bulbs for gardens.

The Woodland Trust said: “Bluebells have become an iconic symbol for UK woodland, which signify the arrival of spring.

“Also, they are an ancient woodland indicator; they thrive best in the delicate ecosystem that exists in area wooded since 1600AD.

“Ancient woodland is a unique and irreplaceable habitat for a number of rare native species, and needs to be protected.

“People should get out and about in woods all year-round, but there is something very special about woods in the spring time.

“Everything is bursting into life and there are more colours, sounds and smells to enjoy.

“Bluebell carpets are a great example of this, but obviously we do ask all visitors to stick to paths and admire them from a distance so they aren’t trampled, and can continue to bloom in future years.”