Wildlife and industry groups are calling on the Government to help restore areas of upland bog dubbed "England's rainforests".

The peatlands can lock up 400,000 tonnes of carbon a year, and have been described by Patrick Begg of the National Trust as: "England's rainforest" in their ability to combat climate change.

But only four per cent is in good 'ecological' condition. The remainder is not living up to its potential for providing homes for nature and combating climate change.

Bog restoration projects currently under way on Exmoor and Dartmoor should serve as models for work nationwide, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds said.

Martin Harper, the RSPB's conservation director, said: "Restoring these peatland sites will help wildlife, soak up carbon and increase their appeal as wonderful places to visit."