The European Union has declared the Isle of Man officially free of a devastating bee disease.

It's being welcomed as an important economic and environmental boost.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture has been working with local beekeepers to prove that varroa, a pest that attacks bees and can kill off entire colonies, does not exist in the Isle of Man, which has more than 800 beehives and aparies.

DEFA Minister Richard Ronan said: 'It’s quite something when we can show the world how a small jurisdiction can work hard, enhance its reputation and provide bees for research to aid the wider understanding of bee diseases.

'We’ve also reached a position where we can fully protect our bee population and maintain and develop its genetic heritage for future generations.

Beekeepers export varroa-free queen bees to England, Ireland and Germany. A poster campaign is underway warning the public of the danger of illegally importing bees or beekeeping equipment that could spread disease.

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