The new generation helping save British bees

A new apprenticeship scheme for bee farmers is hoping to slow the decline of the insects in the UK.

The average age of a bee farmer is currently 65, but this latest initiative is hoping to encourage younger generations to consider the industry.

Griff Tomos, 20, started his career as a fireman, but recently decided to give beekeeping a try.

He told Sky News: "I never saw myself being a beekeeper until I worked there one summer in sixth form.

"I like being outside, it's good exercise as well. I think experience is the most important part. I just like the hard work of moving the bees up here and getting the heather in, it's all worth it."

In 1900 there were around a million beehives in the UK. However, there's been a 75% decline and today there are only 270,000. Of those, 65,000 are managed professionally.

For apprentices, the Bee Farmers' Association Apprenticeship scheme isn't just about looking after the bees. Recruits (Other OTC: RCTS - news) learn carpentry, botany and how to produce honey.

The director of Tropical Forest Products, David Wainwright, who also directs some apprenticeships said: "What we were trying to do is get a new generation of people getting into farming because the average age of our members is 65, which is really old, so we need some young blood and we thought apprentices would be a good idea.

"It's really rewarding when you teach somebody something and then you see it being put into action and actually working."

Honey is hugely popular in the UK and yet we produce only 14% of what we eat.

However, it's hoped that will change with more young people like Griff getting into the industry.