Peatlands are unique wetlands made up of rich organic soil and mossy vegetation, and are among the most valuable ecosystems for nature and carbon on Earth.

Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meaden has warned that peatlands - one of Britain’s “most prized national treasures”- are being destroyed.

The entrepreneur, who described how “nature has always been close to my heart”, spoke out against the threats facing the wetland ecosystems.

She said: “Wet and boggy is no longer the best description for the majority of UK peatlands, with around 80% now damaged and deteriorating.

“The burning of peatland, draining of bogs and planting of commercial forestry have all taken a toll on what should be one of our most prized national treasures.”