Bee keepers were called into action today (Monday 20th June) after a swarm of thousands of bees appeared in Biddulph.

The swarm could be spotted this afternoon buzzing around the B&M store on Biddulph High Street.

Residents were warned to take care while walking down the High Street until the swarm could be moved.

Bee keepers were called in and residents were able to watch as they skilfully organised for the swarm to be moved.

Local resident Tina Beckett said: "We watched, it was really interesting.

"They sprayed with a small bit of water (so the bees think it's rained), held a box under them and tapped the lighting so they all fell in.

"Most bees followed as they knew the Queen was in there. They smoked where she had been to remove her scent so the rest could find her in the box."

But why do bees swarm and are they dangerous?

Swarming is a natural process which bees undertake as a way of forming a new colony, with the old queen leaving with part of the swarm.

Swarming is most common on a warm day between May and July, and usually takes place between 11am and 4pm.

Swarms can be a dramatic sight often involving huge, noisy clouds of thousands of bees.

Swarming bees usually don't sting as they are simply looking for a new home, however it is advised to stay away from swarming bees just to be on the safe side, especially if you have children or pets with you.