How often have you ignored what looks like a tired, or even dead bumblebee?

It's actually quite common to see them in this state. It is not always clear why, but poor weather is one cause and sheer exhaustion at the height of the pollen season is another.

Leaving them alone is not always the right thing to do.

Bees play an important role in pollinating crops and some estimates put their worth to the British economy at £850.

They are especially important in an agricultural county like Herefordshire.

When Sandra Dew spotted what appeared to be a dead bee on her kitchen floor in Leominster she knew just what to do.

She said: "I picked it up and warmed it in my hand, gave it some syrup and, hooray, a few seconds afterwards he buzzed happily away."

She even shot a video of the bee being revived.

The RSPB says mixing about two tablespoons of white granulated sugar with one tablespoon of water and placing the mix in a small container like an egg cup among bees’ favourite flowers will provide bees with energy during the summer when they are at their busiest.

Despite seeming an obvious choice, honey is not a suitable alternative. Most honey is imported and although good for humans, it may not suit our native bees.

Val Osborne, of the RSPB, said: “Bees are working to save the planet and they really do deserve our help.

“Many people keep seeing bees lying on the ground and assume they are dead but chances are they are having a rest.

“Much like us, a sugary drink could boost their energy levels and a simple sugar and water combination will be a welcome treat.

“Just make sure you only leave out the suggested small amounts and use a small cup so that birds can’t get in it.”