An URBAN bumblebee from France has spread rapidly through the UK because of its preference for built-up areas, research has shown.

Scientists believe the tree bumblebee, Bombus hypnorum, could become an important fruit pollinator while posing no threat to native bee populations.

They were more likely to visit species of flowering trees and thistles and to ignore common flowers.

The tree bumblebee is widespread throughout Europe and Asia but made its first appearance in Hampshire's New Forest in 2001.

Now it has spread to nearly all parts of England and Wales, as well as southern Scotland.

Unusually, the insect likes to build its nests above ground, seeking out holes in walls as well as trees. They are also known to nest in empty bird boxes.

Experts believe this is why it has made itself so at home in densely populated Britain's towns and villages.

In 42 rural and urban sites in Norfolk, tree bumblebees were found in built-up areas, and close to woodland.

Lead researcher Liam Crowther, from the University of East Anglia's School of Biological Sciences, said: "The study suggests that urban and suburban areas may be facilitating the tree bumblebee's remarkably rapid natural colonisation of the UK."