Petersfield and District Beekeepers Association is urging potential beekeepers to find out more.

Association spokesman Ali Holingberry said: “Have you ever thought about keeping honeybees?

“If so, our beginners’ winter training starts in February.

“And when the spring arrives we move to the association’s apiary – where the beehives are kept – for a further five practical sessions in small groups.

“At the end of the course, you are strongly encouraged to join other members at our apiary every Sunday afternoon. There you will learn how to look after the bees by observing and helping with the colonies.

“You will also be able to ask the advice of experienced beekeepers who are only too willing to help.”

The ‘old hands’ have more than 50 years’ experience of beekeeping. By learning the craft in the company of more experienced beekeepers, you will learn how to keep a bee colony calm and happy.

This wealth of experience can be tapped into while learning about beekeeping and is particularly valuable before buying any equipment and when first taking the plunge into caring for a colony.

The first introductory session on Sunday, February 19, is free, with the subsequent four theory sessions, along with all the practical sessions, costing £50 – and that includes a year’s membership to the association.

The theory sessions are on Sundays during February and March from 2pm to 4.30pm at Petersfield Community Centre in Love Lane off Ramshill.

For more information visit https://petersfieldbeekeepers.org.uk/training/#beginner