Sutton and Barnby Moor Gardening Club held its second meeting of the year on Tuesday 1st February at the usual venue, Barnby Moor Village Hall and the usual time of 7.00pm. 35 people attended on this occasion. After a warm welcome by chairperson Jenny Bailey, and a general update of club matters and announcements, the speakers for the evening were introduced: Chris and Margaret Edge from Birch Hill Apiary Shireoaks near Worksop.
Margaret talked about the life of bees, through foraging, identifying the kind of plants, shrubs and flowers as well as the different species of the insects and their habits. Margaret has various talks in her vast repertoire including gardens, allotments, wildlife and all thing countrified. Chris is a beekeeper first and foremost and helps with other tasks in the business.
This husband-and-wife team showed a magnificent collection of slides, all themed around the life of bees, and answered many questions on the night ranging from medicinal uses of propolis to the official inspection of apiaries. These are usually carried out by MAFF or DEFRA to oversee the running of such set-ups, ensuring the usual high standards are maintained and to protect the bees and future supplies of our favourite honeys.
This was a very informative and enjoyable presentation, well received by members and guests on the night.
If you would like to join this friendly group please contact chair Jenny Bailey at jennybailey@hotmail.co.uk for further details.