THE first week of extra targeted police patrols in Headley has been hailed a great success - but not without presenting officers with a stinging problem.
Extra targeted patrols in Headley and Headley Down began on Tuesday last week, thanks to cash from the Home Office from its Rural Initiatives Fund.
Acting Inspector Glynis Shaw said that the new patrols were being welcomed, but that officers were confronted with an unusual situation on the first day.
She explained: "A swarm of bees was in a hedge in Headley and lots of kids were hitting it with a stick which, of course, is not a very bright thing to do.
"Officers contacted Pc Eric Martin, who was off duty, because they knew that he is a keeper of bees.
"He arrived at the scene, all kitted up with his suit and hat on and removed the swarm safely.
"Obviously there are two messages here: one, that bees are very dangerous and someone could have been very made seriously ill or worse, because a swarm of bees could kill a child very easily.
"Also, I think that it shows our patrols are working, because the two officers came across it while they were doing their patrols."
Insp Shaw said the extra patrols will continue.
"We know that there are a lot of burnt-out cars that have been dumped there and we will be tackling this problem," she added.