Volucella zonaria

My thanks to Roger B for identifying this insect as Volucella zonaria, otherwise known as the hornet mimic hoverfly. We had never seen one before but apparently they are becoming more and more common in London and the South East.

Next time I see one I want to get a shot of its amazing face.. if the not so little bugger obliges!

Not sure of the species

but it was a big devil and with a colour scheme and markings that make it rather different from the other bee and wasp visitors to our garden.