A talk and slide show by the Bumblebee Conservation Trust to come and talk about the importance of bees and other pollinators and wonder whether you might be able to publicise it in your newsletter if it comes out in time. Gardening for bumblebees and other pollinators

The Bumblebee Conservation Trust is coming to Yorkley to give us a fascinating insight into the lives of these astonishing creatures. The Bumblebee Conservation Trust is coming to Yorkley to give us a fascinating insight into the lives of these astonishing creatures. Bumblebees are familiar and much-loved insects. They pollinate our crops and contribute significantly to our economy through the ecosystem service that their pollination of crops provides.

Bumblebees also support the wider ecosystem through pollinating a diversity of wild plant species. They are an important and cherished component of our biodiversity and their pollination service is also a clear and compelling example of the link between biodiversity and human health and welfare. And much enjoyment can be gained from an appreciation of bumblebees. However, in the last 80 years our bumblebee populations have crashed.

Two species have become nationally extinct and several others are threatened with national extinction. The Bumblebee Conservation Trust has a vision for a different future in which our communities and countryside are rich in bumblebees and colourful flowers, supporting a diversity of wildlife and habitats for everyone to enjoy. Gardens provide vital oases for bumblebees and gardeners have an important role to play, whether you have a window box, allotment or large garden, through providing plenty of flowers for bees to feed on during the entire active phase of the bees’ life cycle. It is also important to encourage children, the next generation of entomologists, to inspire and enthuse them in order to secure the future for bumblebees.

To learn more about bumblebees and other pollinators come to a talk and   a slide show at the YCC on Sunday 4th November at 2pm. Tickets £2.50 on the door or £2 in advance – email vlasta_rhea@yahoo.co.uk