Try looking at pine hawk moth.

Poplar hawk moth. Saw my first one of the year just two days ago. Magnificent things
HC

thanks guys, it was on my front close door thismorning, it is magnificent but slightly scary at the same time ha ha x

Are you sure Hortum? I still think pine. I checked in Collins guide.

S, yes, sure. Look at the scimitar shape to the forewing and the distinctive way the hind wing is under, but held above, the forewing.
HC

its lovely and quit harmless .

Now I feel silly - The caption in the book was in a misleading place - I got the right picture and read the wrong label! Its a lovely little creature. The only ones I've been lucky enough to see have been the lime and the humming bird ones.