Stoke-on-Trent has launched a bid to become a Bee Friendly City and is encouraging residents, schools, community groups and businesses to take part.

The new campaign, which aims to create a network of pollinator-friendly spaces across the city, builds on work already taking place across Stoke-on-Trent,

The work includes the creation of wildflower meadows, naturalised grassland areas and wildlife-friendly planting in parks, nature reserves and other green spaces.

As part of the bid, residents are being invited to share the steps they are taking to support bees and other pollinators, which will be added to a city-wide map of bee friendly activities to support the bid.

Councillor Lyn Sharpe, Bee Friendly City champion at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: "I'm buzzing for the city to get started on becoming a Bee Friendly City.

"We know how much people care about where they live and this is something everyone can get involved in.

"You don't need a large garden or lots of space to help pollinators. A few bee-friendly plants, a window box or even leaving part of your garden to grow naturally can make a real difference.

"There's already some brilliant work happening across Stoke-on-Trent and this campaign is about bringing it all together, celebrating it and encouraging even more people to get involved."

advertisement

A Bee Friendly City event will also take place at Burslem Park on 1 August, giving residents the chance to find out more about the campaign and discover ways they can get involved.

The Bee Friendly Awards is organised by the Bee Friendly Trust and recognises towns and cities that are taking action to support bees and other pollinating insects.

Bees and other pollinators are essential for many wildflowers, plants and crops. Evidence shows many bee species are in decline, making the creation of new habitats increasingly important.

The top three things residents can do to help bees are:

• Create a pollinator pitstop with nectar-rich flowers where bees and other pollinating insects can stop to refuel.
• Let it grow wild by leaving part of a lawn or green space unmown.
• Avoid pesticides that can harm bees and other pollinators.

Residents, businesses and organisations can let the council know about the steps they are taking to support pollinators by emailing Climate and Nature Officer Liz Peck at [email protected]. Activities will be added to the city's Bee Friendly map.

More information about the Bee Friendly City campaign, including advice and resources, can be found on the website here.