The 2007 Blake Shield Winners (for the 10-16 age group):

Ysgol San Sior School, Llandudno, Wales.

Ysgol San Sior School Moth Group, winners of the 2008 Blake Shield with Professor David Bellamy

Their project was about “Moths”. Eleven moth traps were set up in the school grounds, the moths being attracted in each case to either a Mercury vapour lamp or an ultra- violet lamp. The children also made a special moths mixture and spread it on trees. The moth traps were checked and a record of the catches was made. The results (a photographic record of the moths caught and a record for each month) can be seen on the internet at www.welsh-moths.co.uk and www.gwyfynod.com (“gwyfynod” being welsh for “moths”). On one page of the web site the Welsh, English and Latin names are given for the moths featured. The children also observed eggs hatch into caterpillars. They also made “Top Trump” cards featuring pictures of moths, each with an indication of wingspan, rarity, and flight times. The packs of 50 cards each were sold to children at the school. They are an excellent way of remembering moth names while having fun at the same time.

The judges considered that this project was beautifully presented and gave very accurate information.

Certificate of Commendation (Blake Shield age group 10-16):

Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys, Canterbury, Kent.