Local bees declared disease free in UK and EU

Local beekeepers can rest easy - as the European Union has declared the Isle of Man free of a bee-killing disease.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture has worked with honey producers to gain the Varroa-free status to help boost exports into the UK and Europe.

Varroa is a mite that attacks bees, weakening them and transferring viruses - which can kill off entire colonies. 

Keepers of more than 800 beehives and aperies on the Island have worked alongside DEFA and the UK National Bee Unit to gain the status.

A poster campaign has been launched in public places advising of the dangers inherent in illegally importing bees or beekeeping equipment that might spread the disease.