IT may look like a scene from a horror movie but the experts reckon there is really nothing to fear from beekeeping.

To demonstrate the point they are offering free beekeeping lessons.

The sessions at Houghall College in Durham are free. Students can take the beginner or intermediate level course, which will teach them how to manage a hive and encourage the bees to produce honey.

George Eames, a beekeeper for 14 years, from Belmont, is taking the more experienced class.

He said: "It is about getting back to nature and they are fascinating creatures. I love watching them and once you get into it you start to study them. People find it very therapeutic."

Setting up a hive from scratch can cost about £400 but the college tutors can advise people on setting up a hive that will produce honey far cheaper using second- hand equipment.

A working hive can have between 10,000 and 60,000 bees, depending on the weather and the time of year.

Students will learn about the life cycle of bees, how to set up and enter hives and handle bees safely.

Mr Eames added: "I have been stung just once or twice but it doesn't happen very often to tell the truth.

"The trick is treating them right and giving them respect."

The ten-week course takes place every Thursday between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.

For more information call Mr Eames 0797 092 6250.