OKEHAMPTON Beekeepers' first meeting of the new year included a talk given by member Patti O'Brien on 'Planting for Bees'.

The talk attracted a record attendance of more than 40 people, including a visitor from the Newton Abbot branch, Nigel Lawrence, who has taken over responsibility for the Devon Beekeepers' website.

The meeting opened with members observing a minute's silence to recognise the recent sloss of three old friends and branch members, Clifford White, Tony West and Doug Ellis.

The next branch meeting is on Tuesday, March 9 when the national bee inspector, Richard Ball, will give a talk entitled 'Swarm Control — Investing in the Future'.

The branch will also be holding its annual dinner at the Waie Inn in Zeal Monachorum on Friday, April 23.