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Populations of many pollinators have drastically declined throughout the UK as a result of loss of habitat and pesticide use. Some species have even become extinct. The national Bee World initiative dates back to 2013, when Friends of the Earth started giving out free seeds to groups to create wildflower meadow and attract and support our dwindling bee population. The original target was 60 wildflower meadows to signify that we have lost 97% of wildflower meadows in the UK over 60 years. But this target has already been smashed, with over 100 Bee Worlds created in 2013 alone, and the figure continues to rise.

Ten volunteers worked hard throughout the day to dig over the patch of land and then helped the children to sow the seeds, a mix of native wildflowers and grasses that suit the rocky soil of the site.

Ten volunteers worked hard throughout the day to dig over the patch of land and then helped the children to sow the seeds, a mix of native wildflowers and grasses that suit the rocky soil of the site.

Luke Blazejewski, who runs Nature in Salford, helped on the day and explained, “this meadow will greatly support pollinators such as bees, moths and butterflies in the area”. Populations of many pollinators have drastically declined throughout the UK as a result of loss of habitat and pesticide use. Some species have even become extinct.

"This meadow will greatly support pollinators such as bees, moths and butterflies in the area”. Populations of many pollinators have drastically declined throughout the UK as a result of loss of habitat and pesticide use."

The children also had a surprise visit from two Queen Bees who gave out lots of packets for seeds and bee information booklets. Anne Hinds, Head Teacher at Old Moat Primary School, said, “The children had an amazing time and I am sure that they will now take more notice of the bees that visit our garden”. Steph Lynch, a Nature Campaign Lead for MFoE was aso delighted to make the fourth Bee World at Old Moat saying, “I hope it inspires the children to do more”.

This Bee World joins three other that MFoE have created in Parrs Wood, Ashton-upon-Mersey and a mini one on the roof of The Printworks. Bees are proving to be a popular draw for other groups too – Eat Green South Manchester have even set up an independent Friends of the Earth Bee World.

If you would like to set up your own Bee World you can apply for a pack by clicking here.