By Mark Millard
The Yorkshire Beekeepers Association (YBKA), of which we are all affiliated members, continues to represent a vibrant and diverse network of 22 local associations, stretching from Darlington in the north to Rotherham in the south, and from Scarborough in the east to Wharfedale in the west. Covering more than 7,500 square miles (12,000 km²) and boasting a membership of around 1,900 beekeepers, YBKA remains the largest regional beekeeping association in the country.
Each district’s interests are represented by area representatives, who sit on the General Purposes Committee (GPC) to share local updates, raise issues, and feed back key information from across the region. I have had the privilege of serving as Chair of the GPC for the past two years and as an area representative for several more.
YBKA’s permanent headquarters, the Normanby Pavilion, is based at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate, and serves as the central hub for meetings, training, and administration.
This year, we’ve made strides in modernising how we meet and communicate. With investment in new IT equipment, and with the invaluable technical help of Richard Senior, the GPC has successfully begun holding hybrid meetings – allowing members to join either in person or via Zoom. While there were a few teething issues at first, we’re now operating smoothly, and this more flexible format has encouraged broader participation across the region.
There are six GPC meetings each year, and my role as area representative is to report back to our local association on matters of interest and share any issues or developments affecting Yorkshire beekeepers. Equally, any concerns, requests for support, or ideas from local associations can be passed on through me to the YBKA for discussion or action.
The YBKA’s mission remains clear: to support local associations, promote education and examinations, and further the craft of beekeeping. As a registered charity, YBKA also manages financial matters on behalf of its districts, including claiming Gift Aid on membership subscriptions. Interestingly, income from Gift Aid now exceeds the amount received through members’ fees. Funds are invested in charitable accounts with higher interest rates, ensuring maximum benefit for our members.
The Year in Review – 2024
This time last year saw two Asian Hornet incursions in Yorkshire – one in Hull and another in Darlington. The Darlington nest produced several gynes, raising concerns about future spread. YBKA acted swiftly, coordinating efforts across districts and hosting a Zoom strategy meeting attended by area coordinators from neighbouring regions (including Harrogate, Sheffield, and Cleveland), as well as Dhonn Atkinson and his NBU team.
One key outcome was the bulk purchase of Asian Hornet monitoring traps, ensuring associations were prepared for rapid deployment if needed. Thankfully, possibly due to the poor spring weather, we didn’t have to activate these plans – but it’s reassuring to have a coordinated strategy in place.
YBKA’s winter Zoom programme has continued to thrive, featuring a range of world-renowned speakers and drawing strong attendance both live and via recordings.
Like many organisations, YBKA has faced some staffing challenges, with several officers stepping down this year. We are currently without an Examinations or Education Officer, so Vice-Chair Clare McGettigan has temporarily taken responsibility for the Education mailbox, while I’ve handled the Examinations duties. This has limited our capacity to offer some of the educational sessions we’d normally provide. If anyone is interested in helping in either of these roles, please contact myself, Clare, or Linda, the YBKA Secretary.
YBKA once again took part in the Great Yorkshire Show, held over four days in July. The event was a success, with a strong volunteer turnout from associations across the region. Anyone wishing to take part in 2025 is encouraged to contact me or Linda for more details.
We were also delighted to see the YBKA Honey Show successfully reinstated this year, hosted at the Emley Show. With help from Wakefield, Pontefract, and other district members, we delivered an excellent showcase of Yorkshire beekeeping. The Emley Show Society were extremely pleased with the collaboration, and we’ve been invited to host again in the future. Next year’s YBKA Honey Show will take place at the Ecton Show near Whitby.
After last year’s Convention was cancelled, a survey revealed mixed opinions – many wanted more content but found ticket prices too high. Balancing these expectations has proven difficult, and as a result, no convention was held this year.
Looking Ahead
YBKA will once again run a Winter Speaker Programme via Zoom, featuring the following line-up:
- Tuesday 8 October, 7pm – Tom Seeley
- Tuesday 12 November, 7pm – David Evans
- Tuesday 10 December, 7pm – Jamie Ellis
- Tuesday 7 January, 7pm – Norman Carreck
- Tuesday 25 February, 7pm – David Tarpy
The YBKA AGM will take place as a hybrid meeting on Saturday 7 December 2024 at 10:30am.
We are seeking volunteers to join the committee in the following roles:
- Examinations Secretary
- Education Secretary
In addition, District Associations may submit propositions for the Annual Delegates Meeting in March 2025.
A Final Word
I’d like to remind everyone that YBKA is your Area Association – and for the modest sum of £3.00 per member, it offers a great deal of value, support, and opportunity. Please do give it your backing. If you have ideas for improvement, ways to enhance how it operates, or suggestions to better support your own beekeeping journey, let me know or speak with our association secretary. I’ll ensure your thoughts are brought to the table.
Better still, join the AGM on 7 December and make your voice heard.
Mark Millard
Area Representative, Wakefield & Pontefract Beekeepers Association