After months of disappointing and frankly, depressing winter bee stories, suddenly there is a buzz in the air, just as we were about to set off to listen to the hum of a different kind at the Isle of Man TT Races. Northern Bees phoned to say our bees are ready for collection from Ripon. On the same day, local bee keeper, Janet, who guided me through the six week basic bee keeping course, rang to tell me that a friend of hers, Ian, who is relocating wanted a new home for various hives and bees.
We met Ian last Sunday for a free apiary masterclass (bee keepers are certainly always keen to share their knowledge), on Tuesday we meandered to Grindleton at around bee bed time, 8.30pm. Being the owner of a suitable car with the height for a hive stack, Dad was designated driver. Ian guided John and I through every precise process of moving a hive until it was securely in the car, then cheerily said "they're yours now!" John and Dad, drove back steadily, windows down, wearing suitable bee keeping attire (just in case) bearing their cargo like a china tea set.
Ian has three hives including thriving bees for sale. One is a big healthy colony, but probably a bit advanced for us newcomers. After helping us settle the bees in their new location we discussed with Ian the possibility of taking a second hive from him.
An early call to Northern Bees the next day proved more than helpful (plus another 40 minutes advice). With demand from their customers exceeding supply, they positively encouraged us to take the local hive.
Emma came home to the 'funny farm' for a week off - John had her calling him at the office with regular bee sightings and chick updates since it's also now time for them to venture outside.
Bee Story : Ian said 'good bye' to his bees and told us according to old folklore, apparently you must tell the bees if their keeper has died.
He knows of a lady who, upon her husband's passing addressed each of his bee hives and on each pinned a black ribbon. On the day of her husband's funeral the bees swarmed on their former keepers grave.
