A rare moth species – thought to have been extinct in Britain for more than forty years – has been spotted in Kent.

Andre Drew discovered the Clifden nonpareil moth, which is sometimes referred to as the 'Blue Underwing', at Longfield railway station last Saturday.

The 69-year-old had popped to the shops via the pedestrian bridge over the railway when he found the winged creature.

"As I got to the top of the stairs I noticed a moth and was surprised by its size," he explained.

"Having seen many Hawk Moths in my life I knew that this was unusual so I took some photos of it so that I could check it out at home.

"I managed to photograph it, and the wingspan was huge, my photos don't do it justice."

Conservationists said the species if highly regarded among moth enthusiasts and numerous sightings had been recorded this year across the south of England, where it has recolonised.

A moth expert from Kent Wildlife Foundation confirmed that it was a Clifden nonpareil, saying: "Although rather rare – I'd love to see one – it is recorded most years now I believe, and it is probably breeding here again."

The moth was formerly a resident in certain parts of Kent during the 20th century, but became extinct as a breeding species and was only occasionally seen.

They have only recently been re-colonising in Kent.

Ian Hunter, Kent macromoth recorder, said: "The moth is a Clifden Nonpariel Catocala fraxini – it is indeed a large and stunning moth.

"We have been very fortunate in the last fifteen years that they have re-colonised Kent and are spreading elsewhere in the south-east. No-where is it common."