RIGHTLY or wrongly, Einstein was once quoted as saying, “If bees disappear from the surface of the globe, man would have only four years to live.”

Numbers worldwide have almost halved in a decade, but Braintree District Council has teamed up with the Essex Wildlife Trust to offer residents the chance to do their bit and give the flying pollinators a place to do their work.

Up to 1,000 residents have the chance to claim a free bee and butterfly-friendly plant for their garden, patio or window box.

Lavenders, buddleias, ceonothus and viburnums will all be on offer to those who support the council’s Green Heart of Essex campaign by registering their e-mail or postal address to receive future updates.

Cabinet member for the environment Cllr Wendy Schmitt said that she hopes it will help residents to “take their first steps towards creating bee and butterfly friendly gardens”

And Michele Farrant from the Essex Wildlife Trust, who are committed to increasing numbers added: “It doesn’t matter how big or small your garden, or window box, small changes can make a difference.

“By everyone working together this will have a big influence on wildlife, including bees and butterflies, and support the trust’s vision for living landscapes. What is good for wildlife is good for people, good for the local economy and good for the local community.”

The offer closes on August 26, or earlier if all shrubs are allocated. Sign up at the councils website braintree.gov.uk/greenheart or by calling 01376 552525.