With a decline in the number of bees in recent years, the Teifiside Beekeepers’ Association, formed in 1940, is hoping to help the bee crisis by introducing Thursday evening classes for beginners.

The ten week course will see five classroom sessions at Ty Mari in Cardigan Castle, followed by another five weeks of practical, hands on sessions at the Apiary at Coed y Bryn near Newcastle Emlyn.

The Teifiside Beekeepers’ Association hopes the course will introduce bees and the importance of good bee keeping to a new audience.

Their Secretary Marion Dunn said: “Many people new to bee keeping have little knowledge and aren’t properly trained, they don’t know how to manage the bees, they then lose their bees and get disheartened. Many older bee-keepers retire and it would be good to attract a new audience.”

This ten week course hopes to attract those who are interested in preserving the welfare of one of the most important pollinators to get hands on.

“The course will be taught by experienced local bee keepers with support on bee diseases from the local seasonal bee inspector.

The aim of the course is to instil a solid grounding in bee husbandry and confident bees handling. Following the course mentors will be assigned to each beginner to be their 'go to' person for bee keeping help and advice; their support will continue throughout the bee keeping season,” said Marion.

She added: “By attending the course, they will also gain membership of the Teifiside Beekeepers Association, will have bee disease insurance for up to three hives, a beekeeping text book and handouts, as well as being provided with all protective gear for the hands-on sessions.”

To attend the course or for further information, contact: apiarymanager@tbka.org.uk or 07875 755 575