The greatest concentration of livestock at this year’s Devon County Show on May 17-19 at Westpoint, Exeter will be found not in the cattle lines, nor housed in the greatest number ever of sheep pens, but in the bees and honey marquee.

For Devon beekeepers are intent on challenging for the Gold Award for Best Showground Feature, which they won last year, by making sure their popular feature is buzzing.

Ruth Neal, Chairman of Devon Beekeepers’ County Show Committee, said they will bring at least three hives to the County Show, which contain about 50,000 bees per hive.

“But visitors shouldn’t be at all alarmed!” said Ruth. “Two of our observation hives will be behind glass and the outdoor demonstration area is screened by special, protective netting.”

Honeybees, which are classified as agricultural animals under European law, are fighting for survival against a number of predators and pesticides. The marquee features plenty of ways people can support the honeybee, whether by taking up the ancient craft or doing their bit to help.

Ruth Neal added: “Not everyone is able to or wants to keep bees themselves, but everyone can do something to help bees, and in turn help the environment. For example, gardeners can plant bee-friendly plants and go easy on any pesticides.”

An organic nursery will be selling bee and pollinator-friendly plants in the marquee while Devon beekeepers will provide ample opportunity to stock up on bee products including honey, candles and cosmetics.

Devon is the second largest beekeeping association in the country with 1,000 members, who are eligible to compete in 42 classes spanning many aspects of the craft.

Elsewhere on the showground, the Mole Valley Farmers Main Arena will be buzzing with the return of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. The Mounties are back for the fifth time and will perform their popular musical ride twice a day and be on hand to meet visitors between performances.

The three days are a packed celebration of the great British countryside and a terrific day out, too. There’s magnificent livestock, wonderful food and drink, inspiring flower and garden displays, marvellous crafts, a huge country life area, trade stands offering a wealth of goods, and lots of traditional entertainment in six arenas.

  • Devon County Show is on May 17-19 at Westpoint, Exeter.
  • Up to three children (5-15) are admitted free with each paying adult on Saturday.
  • For more information ring 01392 353700, email info@dcshow.org or www.devoncountyshow.co.uk