Unknown Bug

I agree with Robbo - I think it's Rhogogaster picta (I saw one last year at Minsmere and had similar problems tracking down an ID)

Thanks very much Robbo and WJ, had a look and that's the critter thanks very much to both of you.

Got this the same day, animal or vegetable :) 

When I first saw it I thought it was something else until I looked it up, please don't look at the file name or you are cheating :)

Good one JB, I know what it is but no further details ... won't say, will leave it to puzzle others!

Just a word of caution on the sawfly. Tenthredo mesomela is very similar to R. Picta. Although I have never seen one, I understand the latter should have green marks on the edge of the wing (stigma). Your example seems to have black stigma which I think would make it more likely to be T. mesomela. This is a reasonably common species in the UK and I photographed one locally last year so I know they are in the North.
Your second … critter … is a great colour. Some sort of larva, but no clue what.

I will give you a pat on the back when I see you later this month Nige :)

I don't think it is larva but, irritatingly, can't find the info I' m after

Look at the PM I have sent you Wendy :)

Good clue you gave in your last post Wendy :)