This is the dramatic moment an expert honey hunter removed a giant beehive from a temple ceiling in Thailand.

Temple driver Wech said a monk was stung on the foot at his residence in Ang Thong on July 6, causing painful swelling.

The sting was believed to have come from bees nesting in the ordination hall of Wat Mahanam, where the hive had formed a month earlier.

As Buddhist Lent approaches, Wech said religious activities would increase, bringing more villagers and students to the hall. Fearful of the insects, they called the authorities for help.

Footage shows emergency responders Ratha Tapianthong and Phran Tum preparing to remove the nest on July 8.

Tum then climbed the temporary platform carrying fresh leaves and dried banana leaves tied into a torch, using the smoke to scare the bees away.

Authorities said the nest was around 3ft already. The rescuer then used a plastic bag to cover it and bring it down safely.

Locals said the stinging insects later flew off to build a new home in a tree far from the community area.

Four bottles of honey were expected to be extracted, which locals considered 'holy' after being harvested from the temple.