We mentioned the intention to introduce bees into the All Saints' Churchyard from the Spring. Between 1904 and 2004 some 70% of honeybee colonies were lost in the UK. Since then numbers have continued drastically to decline. Yet bees are vital pollinators for many of the trees and flowers we take for granted in our gardens and in the countryside. However, to offset any misgivings there may be from villagers:
- Bees are not naturally aggressive creatures. They only sting when they believe their colony is under threat (and of course the stinging bee dies in the process). If we leave them alone, they do the same for us.
- There are already four beekeepers keeping 11 colonies of honeybees throughout the village. In addition there are numerous colonies of wild bees that have made their home in Coleshill.
- The entrance to the hive in the Churchyard will face away from the grave area. The hive entrance will be protected by a fence which will encourage the bees to climb in flight to and from the hive- and away from any passing people.
- I am on hand in the unlikely event that there were ever to be any problem. The other village beekeepers will be approached to act in support. Contact details will be on the fence.
- If an event is to be staged in the Churchyard, the colony will be closed the previous evening after bees have returned to the hive, and only reopened after the event has concluded.
- In the unlikely event that a visitor is stung, there will be an epipen kept in the medical box in the Church available to counter any allergic reaction.
If there are any questions, or if anyone would be interested in becoming a "bee-warden" or beekeeper could they please get in touch with me via e-mail -
Howard Pool