A BEE expert studying at the University of York has found a new site for her hive of 10,000 honey bees – outside her own office.

Jo Feltrup has installed her hive in the grounds of Harrogate Water’s bottling facility, where she works as a microbiologist.

Ms Feltrup, who is studying for her master of science in York, with her dissertation examining the impact of global warming on bumble bee species in the UK, said: “I mentioned to managing director James Cain that I was looking for a site for my hive and he said ‘bring them to work’. It is the perfect location, in a quiet spot of greenery.

“Bees play a vital role in the environment but sadly populations are in decline all over the UK, so it is wonderful to find a brilliant site outside my own office.”

Mr Cain added: “We are delighted to welcome Jo’s bees to our site and to support the essential contribution beekeepers make to the natural environment. It’s terrific that the bees have arrived in time for Harrogate in Bloom, which we are supporting.”