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

Branch members and keen beekeepers Marion Minton and Simon O'Sullivan were explaining to the members of the public exactly how a beehive works, using their eye-catching display to show what natural resources bees rely on to keep the hive thriving.

Marion Minton explained how honey bees rely on propolis, a resinous mixture bees collect from tree buds, sap flows or other botanical sources. The sticky, sweet-smelling substance is used in the hive to plug up small holes and for mummifying dead bees in the hive. It also has anti-fungal properties that help to curb the spread of fungal diseases, and as a result is often marketed in health food stores as a traditional medicine.

Simon has a nursery of bee-friendly plants that he uses to supply flowers to other members of the group. The branch is also working to get youngsters enthusiastic about the art of beekeeping. Part of their display was comprised of sweet-scented flowers that attracts bees to a garden – with children invited to touch and smell the flowers, and learn about the pollination process. Simon brought his daughter Rebecca along to the show, and she herself is a keen beekeeper.

She said: 'I got into beekeeping thanks to Dad, seeing what he does. It is fun, and something I enjoy.'

The branch now has more than 100 members from a wide rural area including Winkleigh, South Zeal, Sampford Courtenay, Sticklepath and Okehampton itself. The group holds practical beekeeping meetings at members' own apiaries, with demonstrations of hive inspections, manipulations. and other activities all year round.

The group is always looking for new members, and will gladly offer advice on how to get started as a beekeeper. For more information you can visit their website http://www.okehamptonbee.co.uk">www.okehamptonbee.co.uk