Butterfly Conservation was founded in 1968 in response to a growing awareness of the plight of butterflies and moths during the post-war period.

In 2008 Butterfly Conservation was 40 years old.

Our Conservation Review summarises some of the pioneering projects around the UK and Europe where we are reversing the fortune of some of our most endangered species and highlights other areas where we need to do more.

A potted history

From humble beginnings in a North London Flat to today's multiple offices and 50 plus staff, the ups and downs are charted here in two accounts of the last 40 years.

Martyn Davies, long standing council member, gives his personal take on the colourful history of Butterfly Conservation.

Lester Cowling, senior publicity officer, has written this fascinating series for Butterfly magazine, charting the most memorable events in the organisation's history.

• The first 20 years
• 1988 - 2008