Raymond Jones, of Cranwell Village, has chronicled the use of bees in warfare from 400BC to the present day in his book, 'Bee-seiged, Bees in Warfare'.

Mr Jones began beekeeping 13 years ago, taking examinations to an advanced level. He first started his research after he was stung and suffered a bad reaction

Mr Jones said: "All the information I read on bees made me think it would be good to compile it into a book.

"I was amazed to find the enormous impact bees have played in many military situations.

"Bees are deserving of a bigger place in history for the way they have helped man in different ways."

Mr Jones found many examples of bees being used in warfare throughout history including their use by the Romans, the Vietcong and even to detect land mines.

He said: "So many people have told me they want to read the book and those who have read it say they really learnt a lot.

"I think it would appeal to lots of different people- beekeepers, military people, historians or even someone just looking for a weekend read."

The book will soon be available at Buy the Book in Grantham.


Book extract
- Use of bees during the Vietnam War.

"When the enemy came, they saw small heaps of dirt that looked like freshly dug traps. As a result of this the officers ordered their men to clear away the soil and uncover the traps. But the hives were hidden under the earth and there was a terrible commotion when the bees were disturbed. They attacked, mercilessly hundreds of them, and in no time at all thirty enemy troops were out of action. They had to withdraw again. We were encouraged by this and started to breed bees especially for our own defences."


Bee joke #2

Why do bees go on strike?
Because they want more honey and better working flowers.


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