Scottish conservation groups and the police are joining forces in a campaign to stamp out the crime of stealing wild plants.

The campaigners are handing out postcards of bluebells, with the message Stolen from the Wild.

The cards tell people many favourite garden plants like bluebells and snowdrops are stolen from wild populations.

If the thefts continue, the organisers say, it could put entire species of plant at risk.

The campaign is being launched in Scotland by Strathclyde Police, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), the government's wildlife advisers, and Plantlife Scotland. It is called Paw - Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime.

The cards are aimed at everyone, especially gardeners, and will be distributed in garden centres and other likely picking-up points.

John Ralston of SNH said: "At this time of year people want to buy plants and hanging baskets for their gardens.

"But we want them to be aware they could be buying products which have been taken illegally or which are damaging the environment.

"We are concerned that many species, such as sphagnum moss, which forms a vital protective layer for peatbogs, are being plundered in large quantities by commercial pickers to fuel this trade."

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