Police appeal after pensioner’s beehives destroyed in suspected arson attack

Police in Wiltshire have issued an appeal after a pensioner’s beehives were destroyed in a suspected arson attack.

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

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.

More than £30,000 worth of damage was done to Ron’s beekeeping setup, which including generators, microscopy equipment and specialist beekeeping suits.

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

Wiltshire Police have now issued an appeal, urging those in the area at the time to come forward with any information they might have.

Anyone with any information regarding the incident is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 54200027450.