Penarth photographer Conor Elliott has introduced a new symbol of solidarity and support for the NHS and key workers: a butterfly.

During the early stages of the pandemic, the rainbow came to symbolise the spirit of togetherness and gratitude felt across the UK at that time.

Conor fears that this mentality is waning and says introducing this new symbol of "hope, rebirth and regeneration" will serve to reinvigorate the national mood.

He is urging families to create their own butterfly window displays.

"People are very jaded by the ongoing pandemic and I want to show the NHS that now more than ever they have not been forgotten," he tells Nub News.

"Introducing this new symbol can give new life to something that was successful last year and help us to show solidarity again."

Conor does not wish to do away with the rainbow symbology. In fact, he was one of its biggest proponents.

Last year, he walked the streets of Penarth and Barry taking pictures of the many window rainbow artworks displayed by locked down families.

He then created two 6ft x 4ft mosaics made up of the photographs he took. These are now displayed in Llandough and Barry hospitals.

But he says that the butterfly is the perfect metaphor for this current stage of the pandemic as we look towards emerging from our COVID cocoons.

"We're coming to the end of the immediate crisis and are full of hope for regeneration, both personal and in our communities," he says.

"The weather is starting to brighten. Spring is on its way. This will be a wonderful opportunity to brighten our windows again by doing something creative and to feel positive again, a chance to spread a little happiness.

"It would be nice to see smiles back on peoples' faces."

The butterfly symbol has begun its spread wings, featuring in one resident's window already.

For more information on how to get involved or to receive a template, contact Conor via email ([email protected]) or mobile (07814621817).