I think it is pretty amazing that this national show has been going for the last 80 years. When you think about it, the first must have been back in 1931 if my Maths is correct. I wonder what it was like back then and how it has changed over the years?
To answer my own question however, a resounding YES. It almost feels like an institution which I think is both a good and bad thing. It is very traditional in its approach and there are some very serious looking people parading around in laboratory coats not to mention the countless people with their membership lapels, akin to seeing people who have been at the races for the day. However, I quite like all of this tradition being a slight traditionalist and I think it adds an aura of respectability about the place. Something that can be lost elsewhere and has its own merits. I will say it was in complete contrast to The London Honey Show a few weeks ago but that can only be a good thing. Different cities, different audiences, different opinions, all good in my mind.
Let me tell you some more. Read the rest of this entry »
Posted by jamesdearsley | Posted in Beekeeping, Bees | Posted on 14-02-2010
I got a little twinge of excitement yesterday as the post dropped through the letterbox. I saw a large A4 envelope with my name on it and the small postmark of the BBKA (British Beekeepers Association). I applied for membership to the BBKA a few weeks ago now and so this must mean that they have been mad enough to actually include me as a member. Why on earth they have done this I do not know! Anyway the welcome pack included the following…… Read the rest of this entry »
Posted by jamesdearsley | Posted in Beehives | Posted on 07-02-2010
Sunday 7th February
Jo and I have just staggered back from a fanatastic wedding in Oxford. Not only was it at Blenhiem Palace, the birth place of Winston Churchil, which was stuning, but it was, far more importantly and of far more historical importance, the first night we have been away from Sebastian, together. It was quite surreal and yet quite lovely to actually have time together – we got exciting going into Beaconsfield Service Station for example knowing that we could sit down, have a coffee and read the paper! We have obviously reached that age where even a motorway service station is enjoyable! Read the rest of this entry »
Posted by jamesdearsley | Posted in Beehives, Beekeeping, Bees | Posted on 31-01-2010
What a nice way to spend a Sunday evening! The homemade cider reminds me of the weekend I spent making it with friends in Shropshire. Seb was just about walking and we spent two days making this fantastic concoction in beautiful October sunlight. It was incredibly warm as well but I am still not sure whether that was a continual supply of last years cider that kept us going with all the collecting, pulping and crushing of the apples. Read the rest of this entry »
