THERE will plenty of animal magic at Moss Bank Park this weekend as the popular butterfly house opens for the summer.

Animal World’s butterfly house has been closed over the winter as many of the species went into hibernation, but at 10am on Sunday visitors will once again be able to enjoy the many butterflies from around the world, including some that are native to the British Isles.

And members of the Animal World Conservation Action Project (AWCAP) are hoping even more visitors than last year will come.

They also want more businesses and volunteers to support the conservation project. AWCAP chairman Kate Porter said: “It is exciting that the butterfly house is opening for the summer and it is down to the fantastic volunteers who have worked hard.

“We are planning bigger events this year and are hoping that people continue to support us by visiting.”

Planned events include a family activity day on the first Sunday of every month. Animal World’s butterfly house was transformed last year and opened in May, just over a year after it shut.

A record number of people came to visit before it shut for the winter.

AWCAP has worked to ensure the survival of Animal World — particularly the butterfly house — after Bolton Council wanted to close it as part of cuts to save more than £60 million over two years.

Now Animal World depends of grant funding, donations and the support of the community.

Since reopening it has become an educational resource to enhance children’s learning in the classroom.

The entrance fee is 50p.

Mrs Porter said: “More volunteers are always welcome, particularly on weekend, who could be at the gate.

“It would be great if businesses could also get involved through sponsoring a species.”

Next month teachers are invited to an event at the butterfly house to find out how the centre and the accompanying educational pack can complement learning in the classroom.

For more information on volunteering, attending the teachers’ session or sponsoring the house email awcap@hotmail.co.uk.