THE Holsworthy branch of Devon Beekeepers Association (DBKA) held its annual spring convention recently at Chilsworthy Parish Hall.

The 116 seats were sold out two weeks before the event to beekeepers from all over Devon and Cornwall and there was a long waiting list for places. Five speakers from all over the country were invited to talk on the latest scientific research being carried out.

Dr Norman Carreck — researcher at Sussex University and International Bee Research Association started with an update on the progress of the Hygienic Bee Behaviour Project that aims to breed and test a stock of hygienic, native British black honey bees, Apis mellifera mellifera, and to make this available to beekeepers to use in queen rearing and in hives.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.