MP visits Kingston Bee Keepers Open Day

9.06.03

"I would "adopt a hive" if I wasn't busy as a bee!" - Davey

Edward Davey inspects a hive

On Sunday 8th June Kingston Beekeepers held an 'Open Day' at their apiary in Hampton Court Way Allotments - North East Corner, The apiary has shared the location with other allotment holders for the last few years, and is close to Hampton Court Railway Station.

The Apiary was open between 2pm and 4pm with experienced beekeepers from the club, available to show interested visitors the methods used to keep bees. Last year the club's 'Adopt a Hive' scheme encouraged new beginners, who were able to finish the season with their own honey, and keep the bees for the following year.

To recognise the recent support by Kingston and Surbiton's MP, Edward Davey, in backing local beekeepers against extra charges and bureaucracy being imposed by the Financial Services Authority, the club invited Edward Davey to the apiary to see first hand the environmental importance of the beekeepers' work. Like other visitors, he had the opportunity to borrow a beekeeper's hat and look inside an active hive.

Bob Madill, the Chair of Kingston Bee Keepers said:

"Following last years success of interested people from the Kingston area, we again sought new members. We were able to show visitors how to extract honey and make good use of the wax for candle making and associated crafts. We also provided samples of honey recipes and cooking tips".

Edward Davey MP commented:

"I've always been fascinated by bees but never had the opportunity to see a hive close up. Kingston Bee Keepers made me and others very welcome. I would join their scheme to "adopt a hive" if I wasn't already busy as a bee! If you join, you don't get stung financially either."