Beekeepers have planted a tree at a Worcester cemetery to mark a milestone occasion.
The British Beekeepers’ Association are celebrating their 150th year anniversary this year and are marking the milestone by planting trees across the country.
In Worcester, a small-leaved lime tree has been planted in the natural burial ground at Astwood Crematorium and Cemetery – owned and managed by Worcester City Council.
The natural burial ground is maintained using specialist techniques to encourage wildflower growth, enhancing habitats for pollinators and other wildlife.
The tree will be a magnet for bees as it produces a sweet scent, which they collect.
Beehives were first introduced on the edge of the natural burial grounds in 2021, as part of an initiative to support floral diversity and encourage thriving pollinator populations.
Lloyd Griffiths, Worcester City Council’s Corporate Director for Operations, Homes and Communities, said: “We are glad that Worcester Beekeepers chose Astwood Crematorium and Cemetery to plant this lime tree.
“The natural burial ground is managed using the highest professional and environmental standards to promote biodiversity in the area.
“This new tree will help wildlife to continue to thrive.”
Worcester Beekeepers started in 1886 and were on hand to plant the lime tree recently. The group are one of seven beekeeper associations in Worcestershire.
Richard Neary, Chairman of Worcester Beekeepers, said: “We are hoping for a better year for bees as last year was too cold and bees had to cluster to keep warm.
“If you would like to learn more about beekeeping then we have a teaching apiary where people who are interested in keeping bees can receive tuition.
“For more information visit www.worcesterbeekeepers.co.uk.”
