Government Awards Bedford Borough for ‘Brilliant’ Bugs and Bees

Bedford Borough Council has received national recognition by Government for its 'Bugs and Bees Project.'

In awarding the project the Bees' Needs Champion Award, Rebecca Pow MP Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) offered congratulations for what she described as 'exceptional work…done to help pollinators survive and thrive.' The Minister was particularly impressed at how the Council involved local residents in reducing grass cutting to create meadow areas, and the consequent support received from the wider community.

Mayor Dave Hodgson said "I am delighted that the award acknowledges that it is critical that we act now, internationally and at home, to ensure that we leave our environment in a better state for future generations. We are raising awareness across society that pollinators are a priority and restoring and creating habitat for wild and managed pollinators.

"I would like to thank the Minister Rebecca Pow MP who has congratulated us on our 'brilliant work.' In her letter she describes Bugs and Bees' as an example to 'inspire others to learn more about the importance of pollinators, and take their own steps to help them thrive.'

"I would like to thank our residents who have enthusiastically supported 'Bugs and Bees' which has seen the Council reduce maintenance where appropriate to enable the creation of wildflower meadows. Our dedicated team have worked hard to improve habitats for local pollinators, and keep our parks beautiful and practical for all park users."