Heartbreak as thousands of bees killed after vandals destroy hive at Railworld in Peterborough

The incident took place at Railworld Wildlife Haven, near Oundle Road, last Monday evening (December 21). Vandals also kicked down fences and destroyed bird feeders at the popular attraction.

The attack was especially devastating given that the bees had all been fed and cared for to keep them alive throughout the winter months.

Given their hive was destroyed and the cold winter temperatures it is highly likely that most of the bees were unable to survive.

Volunteers have confirmed that this is the second attack of this nature they had to deal with this year but have vowed not to let it get them down.

Railworld Chair, Brain Pearce, said: “We had John, an 85-year-old volunteer, looking after the Bees, trying to sort things out and repair the mess - the Bees had all been fed (Beekeepers called it Candy - it’s sugar and minerals to keep the Bees sustained during Winter.)

“The culprits certainly made a bit of a mess by smashing down fences. For what reason though? This is absolutely crazy and soul destroying for our volunteers who last year received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service after giving over 13,000 recorded volunteer hours.

“It was too cold for the Bees to be out and most have died- do these vandals know how important bees are for our civilisation? They pollinate over 30% of the food we eat and we are all so saddened and disappointed after such a terrible year.

“We are doing this for the future generations and there are still some fabulous people out there and we have important work to do. No vandal or burglar is going to beat us.”

To help the environmental charity deal avoid any future setbacks, BGL Group have stepped in to provide CCTV and everything in the gardens has been coated with SmartWater, which is a forensic marker to deter thieves. It is long lasting and only shows up under ultraviolet black light.