A FACTORY in Okehampton making beehives received a visit from Central Devon MP Mel Stride last week.

Mr Stride visited National Bee Supplies following June's launch of a review by the government into the crisis facing bees and other pollinators in the UK, with the goal of introducing a national pollinator strategy.

Regarded as makers of the finest quality bee hives, National Bee Supplies is an expanding business, leading the market for bee hives and beekeeping equipment.

After visiting the factory, Mr Stride said: 'The decline in bee populations is a serious problem as bees and other pollinators fertilise the majority of the world's food crops.

'The decline we have seen in recent decades due to loss of habitat, disease and harmful pesticides must be reversed.

'It was good to spend time with National Bee Supplies today and see how they are working to support the beekeepers and so increase bee populations.

'I would urge anyone who is interested in supporting our bee population to get in touch with National Bee Supplies to see how they can get involved.'

Owner Bill Stevens said: 'It is important to increase our bee populations to pollinate food crops and preserve the wildlife that we cherish in this country.

'Encouraging more people to get involved with beekeeping is one of the ways we can do this and anyone interested should contact us on 01837 54084 or visit http://www.beekeeping.co.uk">www.beekeeping.co.uk.'