Sir – For those discerning gardeners that would like to encourage and attract the local honey bee and butterflies into their garden this year and for future years, I would suggest a few plants that may not only add colour and joy to ones garden but will also help the bee in its search for nectar and pollen. Thyme, rosemary and clovers are early spring and long-flowering choices.

Borage, lavender and hawthorn for summer and late spring. For late-flowering plants, those such as fuchsias, ivy, heathers and sunflowers will ensure a bee-friendly garden. You might also consider a wildflower meadow, instead of lawn, which blooms throughout the seasons.

Nick Holt-Kentwell, Beekeeper, Witney