SOMERSET beekeepers are celebrating a sweet victory at the Royal Bath and West Show when they beat tough competition to take the prestigious Challenge Shield for gaining the most points.

Talented Westcountry beekeepers competed in 44 classes spanning honey, wax, cookery and photography.

Somerset won an unbeatable total and knocked rivals Wiltshire into second place with a margin of just three points.

Double award-winner David Pearce of Bathealton near Taunton impressed the judges and went away with two trophies including one for winning more points than any other Somerset member.

President of Somerset Beekeepers and show steward, Ken Tredgett, said the standard of competition was very high and he was delighted Somerset had won back the shield.

He added: “Regaining the Royal Bath & West Challenge Shield demonstrates the high quality of beekeeping going on in the county. Wiltshire ran us a very close second but some of our exceptional beekeepers ensured victory was ours."

For more visit www.somersetbeekeepers.org.uk