THERE was a hive of activity at the Okehampton branch of the Devon Beekeepers' Association stand in the bees and honey marquee.

Members were explaining to members of the public what the bee keeping community was doing to fight off the Varroa mite destructor, which since it came from Asia in 1992, has been a threat to the indigenous Western bee itself and consequently to honey supplies. Varroa destructor can only replicate in a honey bee colony. It attaches at the body of the bee and weakens the bee by sucking .

Alison Blair from Bow explained how beekeepers had tried different methods to fight the disease, such as insecticidal strips, but the mite had developed an immunity. Now organic treatments have been tested and only time will tell if this is successful. Beekeepers are trying an integrated pest treatment and a different strategy to solve the problem.

The Okehampton branch of the DBKA has more than 100 members from a wide rural area including Winkleigh, South Zeal, Sampford Courtenay, Germans-week, Throwleigh, Bratton Clovelly, Lustleigh, Gidleigh, Sticklepath and Okehampton itself.

Although there are activities all year round from May to September the branch holds practical beekeeping meetings at members own apiaries, when hive inspections and manipulations are demonstrated.

They also plan to have a beekeeping tent and honey show at the Okehampton Show on August 11.

l For more information call chairman Ray King on 01363 772007 or show secretary Malcolm Craig on 01837 880118.