Honey all round as we collect our first batch from our onsite apiary

Honey all round as we collect our first batch from our onsite apiary

Honey all round as we collect our first batch from our onsite apiary

We’re delighted to have collected our first batch of honey, after installing an on-site apiary earlier this year.After recognizing the important role that bees play in the UK’s natural eco-system, we partnered with Harrogate and Ripon Beekeepers Association to offer the insects a home at a new apiary, constructed in May.

The British bee population has declined at an alarming rate in recent years, by a third since 2007.

Contributions to the decline include recent wet summers, which have prevented bees from searching out pollen, and environmental changes, such as the increased use of pesticides in farming, alongside the depletion of natural habitats.

Bees are a vital part in the world’s food production, as studies have revealed that around a third of the world’s food is pollination dependent.

The new apiary has already provided a boost to the local bee population, and several jars of honey have now been collected.

Each bee can make half a teaspoon of honey in its lifetime, meaning it takes approximately 180 bees to fill a full jar.

Our group managing director, Graham Richardson, said: “The installation of the on-site apiary has proven a hugely worthwhile exercise. It’s our duty to protect and nurture our eco-system, and this is a small way that we can do just that.”

Have you read our blog on planting trees for bees? you can read it here 'Planting trees for bees' 

Posted 28th Sep 1:13pm