A north-east castle is the bee’s knees this summer.
That’s after Castle Fraser joined forces with Kemnay Community Bee Group to help increase the insect’s numbers.
The National Trust of Scotland property is hosting four hives, containing around 150,000 bees, at its historic estate in Aberdeenshire.
The initiative has been launched to support the production of local honey which has suffered a massive decrease in volume, due to poor weather and pests such as the varroa mite.
These could cause Scottish honey bees to die out without the help of local apiarists.
Maureen Stewart, a member of the Kemnay group, said: ‘This year, my husband and I are very happy to be in partnership with Castle Fraser where we have introduced our bee hives.
“We hope these will thrive in the lush grounds of Castle Fraser, helping pollinate plants which are contained in the walled garden and surrounding area.
“There has been a wild colony of honey bees in a turret at the castle for many years, which may have built up a resistance to the varroa mite which is harmful to all honey bees.
“Hopefully, in the future, these super bees will breed with local honey bees and pass on their resistance.”
The iconic castle will stage a Bee Festival on August 12 to highlight their importance to the public. Face painting, crafts, trails and wild flower bombing will be among the myriad attractions on offer.
NTS Property Manager, Paula Swan added: “Two members of the Kemnay Community Bee Group will be present at this event to educate people about the importance of the survival of honey bees, sourcing future bee keepers and selling their natural honey goods.
“I am delighted to be working with these passionate individuals who have got the place buzzing.”
