Pensioner’s beehives destroyed in suspected arson attack

A bee colony that was more than 20 years in the making have been destroyed by vandals in a suspected arson attack in Wiltshire.

Ron Hoskins’ beehives were torched along with his shed and greenhouse at Stanton Fitzwarren by Highworth, near Swindon, earlier this week.

The 89-year-old had spent the last 20 years researching and selectively breeding his bees to cope with Varroa Mite, a parasite which kills millions of bees worldwide.

Ron's greenhouse and shed were also damaged. Credit: Dave Hoskins

Thousands of pounds worth of damage was done to Ron’s beekeeping setup, which included generators, microscopy equipment and specialist beekeeping suits.

A number of his beehives were also vandalised or tipped over during the attack.

Posting on social media, Ron’s son Dave said his father was “devastated”.