Laois group wants to help you start a buzzing new hobby

Laois Beekeepers want to spread the gospel and get more people into the hobby that can play a big part he helping the environment at upcoming events on the grounds of the Electric Picnic.

The Dunamaise Beekeepers are holding open events in August the show people what's involved and how to get started.

The club says there will be an observation hive with glass walls through which visitors will be able to see the Queen and the bees at work. All of the bees in Dunamaise's hives are native Irish honey bees. There will also be a virtual hive set-up for demonstration purposes as well as examples of the different kinds of honey made.

Dunamaise Beekeepers say there are passionate about ensuring the survival and flourishing of the native bee.

"This is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about both the ancient craft of beekeeping and the bees themselves. Stradbally Hall is a proud member of Historic Houses of Ireland," they say.

The open days take place on Sunday, August 13th, and Sunday, August 20th, from 11.00 am to 5.00 pm, at the Fergal Dineen Apiary at Stradbally Hall, Co. Laois.