A declining bee species has been spotted at Sheringham Park.

The mining bee Andrena varians, which has not been seen in Norfolk for more than 60 years, has been spotted in the park.

Dr Stuart Warrington, nature advisor for the National Trust, said; 'There are more than 250 bee species in Britain, from the well-known honey bee and bumblebees, to the less often recognised mining bees, mason bees, leaf-cutter bees and cuckoo bees.

'Bumblebees and mining bees are thought to be better at pollinating flowers than honey bees, as they spread lots more pollen from flower to flower. It's essential we try and conserve our bees, as they play this vital pollination role across our countryside.

'There are 24 bumblebee species in Britain, but only about six of these are common and widespread, all the rest are either rare or declining. They need a flower-rich countryside to have a healthy nest and a growing population.'

To celebrate its bees, the National Trust is running two bumblebee identification workshops at Sheringham Park on Friday and Saturday .

The workshops are suitable for complete beginners and cost �20. For further details phone 01263 820550.