In 2023, we partnered with the Mid-Cheshire Beekeeping Society to help them further their reach and boost awareness of the importance of beekeeping.

From sharing their knowledge on beekeeping at their dedicated garden in Northwich to attending local events, their dedication to the cause has certainly continued. Here's what they've been up to since we last spoke to the Mid-Cheshire Beekeepers.

Launched New Courses & Upgraded Training Facilities

A new beginner beekeeping course has begun, consisting of six online sessions of theory-based lessons. This has been very popular, with 20 new potential beekeepers signed! This eventually will lead to practical training, which starts in mid-spring.

Their training apiary has also been expanded, seeing an addition of three new bee hives last year alone, along with three colonies of bees. The development of the site is a work in progress, which will soon include additional hives and further equipment which will aid them in their training and teaching.

Events & Resources

MCBK has also invested in their resources for events, including new posters, poster boards, stands, beekeeping equipment, pamphlets and leaflets. This has helped improve their offering and allows them to pique the interest of those passing by. Many of their handouts are educational, giving people a better understanding of our pollinators and the plants that they like to forage on.

At their stands, they sell their own honey and wax products and encourage the public to sample their natural pure honey, while talking about its many health benefits.

They've even purchased a display hive, which is taken to events so you can see the bees at work, making their comb and honey!

Want to see Mid-Cheshire Beekeepers at a show this year? They'll be at the following events:

• Royal Cheshire County Show (18-19 June 2024)
• Arley Garden Festival (29-30 June 2024)
• Cheshire Game & Country Fair (25-26 August 2024)

And Much More!

Since our last catch-up, some members of the society have been on the radio to promote their beekeeping and promote awareness of honeybees. They've been to schools and organisations and even attended charity events. In the winter, they still meet indoors, covering subjects like wax, queen-rearing, and predators. They also hold a branch honey show in November so members can compete in classes of honey production.

As bees start to awaken in spring, the Mid-Cheshire Beekeepers are sure to be preparing for a busy season. We're excited to hear what they get up to next!

Want to learn more about our partnership with the Mid-Cheshire Beekeepers Society? Read 'J. Parker's to Partner with Mid Cheshire Beekeepers' for more information!