POLICE are investigating a report of stolen beehives in the Llangollen area.

A total of 14 hives with incumbent bees are reported to have been stolen from Blackwood Lane, Mynydd y Garth, just outside of Llangollen.

North Wales Police's Rural Crime Team said the theft was sometime between 8am on Saturday, July 28 and around midnight on Monday, July 31.

PCSO Iwan Owen said: “Firstly, we are appealing to the beekeeping community. Clearly, anybody seen with these hives would have some knowledge about beekeeping.

“A total of 14 hives have gone, so they’re likely to have been taken in a vehicle similar to a long wheelbase Ford Transit, or a trailer. Or are you aware of somebody who has had a sudden influx of beehives, or know somebody who's starting to sell hives or new colonies?

“They are likely to have been taken late at night because the bees would presumably return to the hive after about 8.30pm."

He added: “If you've been in the area, or you live locally, and you have dash cam footage, Ring Doorbell or CCTV, please let us know. We are appealing to anybody who saw anything suspicious in the area around those times to get in touch.

“There is a cost of a several thousand pounds to the victim, and we'd be keen to get any information whatsoever that you think may assist us. Thank you.”

Anyone with information can contact police via the website, or on 101, using reference A121770.