Been and gone

We have had bees in the cavity beneath the floor of our shower room for several years. They only cause any bother in warm weather, but in the last week they have swarmed twice.

The first swarm was gathered by the local suitably-uniformed expert: however the second, this morning - photographed here in our back garden - made off before he could get along to us.

Tomorrow the builder arrives to seal up the entrances they have been using; and then we need to have the floorboards lifted and all traces of honey removed, so we are told. Caroline is in mourning.