THERE was a buzz at Rookley Community Hall.

The Isle of Wight Beekeepers Association is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and around 40 members turned-up to enjoy a barbecue.

Among those attending the event were president of the association and Dave Cassell, its chairman.

Dave said that among the challenges beekeepers faced on the Isle of Wight now were the use of chemicals which can kill the honey producing insects as well as the appearance of a blood-drinking parasite, known as the Varroa mite.

However, he added Island beekeepers had, over the past ten to 15 years, kept a less aggressive type of bee.

He said: "I think people are more conscious about the need for nice bees."