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…
Education and Examinations Report 2024 – Wakefield & Pontefract Beekeepers
By Mark Buckley Education remains at the heart of what we do as an association, and I’m pleased to report continued success among our members this year in both training and formal assessments. We had one candidate complete the Basic Assessment with outstanding results, achieving a Distinction – a well-deserved…
Apiary Update – Growth, Challenges, and a Thriving Season
Our association apiary has continued to develop steadily over the past year, though not without its fair share of challenges and triumphs along the way. Last year, we set a budget to fund essential groundwork and purchase new equipment, and those investments have certainly paid off. However, as the site…
Reflections on a Challenging Beekeeping Year 2023-24
As another beekeeping season draws to a close, it’s time to pause, look back, and reflect on what has undoubtedly been one of the most challenging years in recent memory. Back in January, I was feeling optimistic. I visited a site where fields of Oil Seed Rape were just coming…
Webmaster’s Report – Wakefield & Pontefract Beekeepers Association 2024
By Kirit Gordhandas This year’s report begins with an important request: I am looking for someone to take over the role of Webmaster. Unfortunately, I am no longer able to continue in an active beekeeping role, as I am caring for an elderly relative whose health has significantly deteriorated. Our…
Emley Show 2024
The Emley Show is always a highlight of the beekeeping calendar, taking place each year on the first Saturday in August. It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring together beekeepers, honey lovers, and the wider public in a vibrant celebration of rural life and craftsmanship. This year was extra special for…

World Bee Day 2024 at Thornes Park | WPBKA
On Sunday 19 May 2024, members of Wakefield and Pontefract Beekeepers Association joined the celebrations for World Bee Day at Thornes Park. The event, organised by Mindful Movers, brought together local community groups including the Wakefield College Horticultural Team and Open Country, creating a vibrant showcase of nature, wellbeing, and…

Planting Roots: Celebrating 150 Years of the BBKA at Wakefield Apiary
After years of negotiation with Wakefield Council, we were delighted to move into our new apiary site two years ago – a milestone that marked a fresh chapter for Wakefield Beekeepers Association. Since then, the site has become the beating heart of our association: a place where beginners learn the…