A big surge in public interest in beekeeping is expected to be reflected in a high level of entries for the traditional bees and honey section at Shrewsbury Flower Show next month.

The Shropshire Beekeepers Association display is one of the biggest in the country, second only to the National Honey Show each autumn.

And Shrewsbury is the only major show where live displays of bee handling are made and observation hives are on view.

Association president Brian Goodwin said: “We have never before experienced such a high level of interest in beekeeping – and we expect this to be reflected in entries at the show.

“We have run out of schedules, which has never happened before, and entries are already pouring in from as far afield as Cornwall and Durham.”

He believes the sudden surge of public interest stems in part from keenness within the Women’s Institute movement.

The UK’s biggest women’s organisation has been promoting discussion and action on beekeeping and has made representations to the Government over the value of bees.

In recent years beekeepers have faced problems from disease, but Mr Goodwin says this can now be controlled.

He said: “Beekeeping has long held a fascination for many people, not least in Shropshire where the association is very strong.

“The live demonstrations at the flower show are always a big attraction and we expect even more people there this year.”

The bees section forms part of the overall exhibits in the Severn Marquee at the show, which takes place on August 14 and 15.

Tickets for the flower show at advance prices up to and including August 8 are now available from the show office at Quarry Lodge, Shrewsbury, SY1 1RN or by calling (01743) 234050.