May marked the start of this year’s Beginners’ Beekeeping Course, which was once again fully booked with 19 enthusiastic attendees. The course is a joint venture between Wakefield & Pontefract BKA and Barnsley BKA, offering new beekeepers a strong foundation of knowledge and practical experience from both associations.
A huge thank you goes to Ivor for his exceptional organisation, preparation, and delivery of the nine-week course. His dedication and expertise ensured that participants gained a thorough introduction to the craft. Thanks are also due to Richard Thompson and Val Francis from Barnsley for their invaluable contributions as tutors and lecturers throughout the programme.
After the course concluded, the association opened the apiary on Monday evenings for members to carry out hive inspections and build confidence through hands-on experience, although attendance was unfortunately low this year.
Financially, the course also proved successful. With total fees of £1,290 and expenses of £227.19, it generated a profit of £1,062.81. As part of our partnership, Barnsley BKA received £240.00, while Wakefield & Pontefract BKA retained £822.81.