Self-described “butterfly man” James Leigh braved the rain in his bid to drum up support for a campaign to transform a green space next to the Royal Free Hospital into a butterfly garden.

Mr Leigh wants to see Hampstead Green, off Rosslyn Hill, Hampstead, filled with wildflowers to attract the insects and he is calling on Camden Council to give permission for the scheme.

With rain affecting his efforts to attract support on Saturday, the Primrose Hill resident plans to ­return to Haverstock Hill in Belsize Park today (Thursday) in the hope of garnering signatures for his petition.

He says the campaign must prove it has the support of residents before the council will give its blessing. He added: “If you would like to see Hampstead Green covered in colourful wildflowers, buzzing with busy bees and the fleeting evanescence of beautiful butterflies, then go to www.bringbackthebutterflies.org.uk and ‘sign’ our petition.”