HOLLYWOOD actor Matthew Rhys has launched a campaign to restore paths and protect wildlife around Snowdonia.

With 838 square miles of mountainous landscapes, Snowdonia stands strong among idyllic Welsh countryside. But the reality is Snowdonia isn’t as tough as it appears.

That’s why conservation charity the National Trust has today launched an urgent nationwide appeal to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds which is needed to repair paths and protect wildlife habitats in Snowdonia.

More than four million people visit Snowdonia every year, with 450,000 walking up Snowdon alone. The area is home to rare wildlife like the Snowdon Lily and endangered Snowdon beetle – which in the UK are found only in the Snowdonia National Park.

The National Trust is hoping to raise £250,000 from the public fundraising campaign which has celebrity backing from Matthew, who is an Ambassador for Snowdonia.

The Americans and Edge of Love star, who hails from Cardiff but who has strong family connections to the area, said: “I still get swallowed up by the scenery and sounds of Snowdonia. From the legendary Llyn Dinas to the great Snowdon summit across one of the most dramatic valleys in Wales, Nant Gwynant, I have a profound love for this place.

“Although I am away from Wales a lot these days, it is that love that keeps me connected while away. Sadly, I also see the trail of destruction the eroded paths are leaving behind when I return.

“I have been involved with National Trust Wales’ previous appeals in the area, such as for the acquisition of Llyndy Isaf for the nation and the introduction of the Llyndy scholarship.

“Seeing the joy these unique wonders bring for so many people, I desperately want to complete this vital repair work so fellow nature enthusiasts can enjoy Snowdonia for generations to come.

“But I know there’s a delicate balance to be struck between man and nature. Preserving that balance inevitably needs resources that allow organisations like National Trust to do such an amazing job in making these areas of outstanding natural beauty more resilient for all to enjoy.”

Rhys Thomas, NT ranger forSnowdonia, added: “Eroded paths are threatening Snowdonia’s fragile nature. If we don’t act now, it could be lost forever. More and more people are coming to enjoy the beautiful scenery in Snowdonia and walk our paths. On Snowdon, Wales’ highest mountain, we’ve seen the number of walkers double since 2007.

“I’ve been building and rebuilding paths in the area for eight years. It’s tiring, time-consuming and back breaking work – involving hundreds of hours of volunteer time which requires shifting tonnes of stone by hand, vehicle and helicopter.

“But it’s vital if we want to protect the delicate upland habitats that make Snowdonia a special place for wildlife.

“We urgently need to raise about a quarter of a million pounds to do this critical work on top of all the other conservation work we carry out day by day, month by month, and year in, year out.”

The £250,000 will enable National Trust rangers and volunteers to:

· Repair and upgrade two and a half miles of paths in Snowdonia. On average it costs £180 to build just one metre of footpath

· Protect delicate Snowdonia’s wildlife, such as the endangered Snowdon beetle, which thrives in upland heath

The appeal will run until the end of 2017. To donate, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/snowdonia-appeal or text SNDN12 and the amount you wish to donate to 70070.