A bee keeper is calling for the public to be proactive if they come across a swarm.

Rod Smart from Wivenhoe says it is important for bees to be treated properly, in light of the huge decline in numbers over recent years.

He said: “They are having a rough time at the moment.

“A lot of bees are dying and experts don't know why.

“They suspect that chemicals used by farmers cause problems, and they also get little mites which can kill them.”

Mr Smart, of The Avenue, added that he and colleagues from the Essex Beekeepers' Association will pick up swarms and look after them.

Just last week, he was called to the new cemetery in Wivenhoe where a congregation of bees had been spotted by groundsmen cutting the grass.

“The bees would have been perching there for a few days looking for a better place,” he said.

“I brought them home and they are now in a hive.

“They are being fed and examined for any diseases.

“I will then pass them around within the EBA, for new beekeepers who don't have any yet.”

Anyone who spots a swarm can call Lydia Geddes from the Colchester division of the Essex Beekeepers' Association on 01206 392226.

For more information, visit www.ebka.org