Thousands of bees swarm on Hastings pier

Two swarm of honeybees were unwelcome guests on Hastings pier as thousands enjoyed the sunshine on Sunday afternoon (May 8).
Thousands of bees swarmed on the pier on Sunday. Photo courtesy of Hastings Pier CharityThousands of bees swarmed on the pier on Sunday. Photo courtesy of Hastings Pier Charity
Thousands of bees swarmed on the pier on Sunday. Photo courtesy of Hastings Pier Charity

The bugs were believed to have been attracted to a brightly-coloured life buoy on the east side of the pier but thousands filled the air much to the irritation of the estimated 13,700 visitors.

The Hastings Pier Charity promptly called a beekeeper who said the queen bee was missing which had caused the two swarms to split.

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Once he had merged them, the beekeeper removed the vast majority of them by early evening but some remain meaning a few sections of the pier are cordoned off.

The bees seemed to be attracted to the brightly-coloured life bouy. Photo courtesy of Hastings Pier CharityThe bees seemed to be attracted to the brightly-coloured life bouy. Photo courtesy of Hastings Pier Charity
The bees seemed to be attracted to the brightly-coloured life bouy. Photo courtesy of Hastings Pier Charity

A charity spokesman said the bees are very docile but urged visitors to take care around them.

The official opening ceremony for the pier on May 21, is approaching fast but the event is sold out and entry to the pier on the day will only be for people with tickets.

For more information visit: www.hastingspier.org.uk.

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