Hive full of bees comes to Leicester city centre to encourage biodiversity

The newest arrival at Leicester’s LCB Depot is set to bring a real buzz to the city centre.

That’s because it is a hive full of bees.

Nicknamed the Elsie Bees, they will live in a single hive in the rear courtyard of the LCB Depot in Rutland Street to encourage biodiversity and awareness of environmental issues.

The bees and hive have been donated by Honey Craft, a business run by De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) graduate Liga Orlovska.

She is one of the entrepreneurs on DMU’s Crucible Project, a two-year business support programme which supports graduates and alumni to turn their business ideas into reality.

On Thursday, July 15, Honey Craft will be holding a bee-themed event, to help families learn more about how they can do their bit to help the environment.

It will also see the launch of the first book published under Honey Craft’s Bug Books series.

To Bee or Not To Bee, written by Jayne William and illustrated by Keith Turner, tells the story of a bee called Zuuub. Aimed at children aged five to 11, it takes children on an exciting adventure while spreading the message to look after our environment.

Liga is a beekeeper herself and a member of the Leicestershire and Rutland Beekeeping Association. She looks after her hives with son, Eduards.

Liga said: “I started my career in arts in Leicester working for projects in Leicester City Libraries. My children grew up there and I can’t imagine a better place to be.

“To become a publisher myself feels absolutely wonderful. There are so many stories I wish to tell. I am so fortunate to be working with the most inspiring children’s book author Jayne Williams and genius illustrator Keith Turner, of course I met them through library projects.

“It’s been great to be part of the DMU Crucible programme and get all this mentoring and help from the university I graduated from.”

Percy Emmett leads DMU’s Crucible Project and has been Liga’s mentor. He said: “Liga has shown the determination to succeed in business throughout her time as a Crucible Project member, and it has been a pleasure to be part of her journey.

“The message of caring for the environment is one which is so important and one which resonates with so many of us, particularly families who are looking after the next generation.”