FOREST beekeepers have welcomed the announcement that the Government is to spend an extra £4.3 million on bee health research.
Bees have been hit particularly badly by disease and pest infestations recently and climate change is also blamed for wet weather hitting hives.
A spokesman for Dean Forest Beekeepers said: "The committee and members are pleased that the sustained campaign to increase funding for bee health research has been recognised by the Government and that an extra £400,000 a year for the next five years will be found for much needed research.
"We hope that the support will continue after this time period without the need for further petitions, and trust that Defra truly appreciates the value of bees to the welfare of the farming community."
The beekeepers said they wanted to thank all members of the public who signed a petition to increase research funding at events which Dean Forest Beekeepers attended in 2008.
The British Bee Keepers' Association survey of members showed that bee numbers declined by 30 per cent during winter 2007/8.
"In the Forest of Dean our members suffered losses closer to 50 per cent. Our members hope we do not suffer the same volume of losses this winter," said the spokesman.
Details of Dean Forest Beekeepers membership and courses can be obtained from secretary Harry Middleditch on 01291 622210.