The ladies of Filgroup recently enjoyed a interesting talk by Fred Swift, alias The Wiltshire Beekeeper.
Meeting once a month in Fovant Village Hall, the independent ladies’ group regularly hosts interesting guest speaker, craft workshops and outings. This March, Fred regaled the ladies with many fascinating facts about bees, their different personalities, the care they need, the things they don’t like and the complicated infrastructure of their hives.
Of course it would be difficult to talk about bees without impressing how very important they are to our very existence and the many dangers they face, including the reintroduction of neonicotinoids on sugar beet.
However, a real surprise was discovering the problems beekeepers face from woodpeckers, mice, deer, badgers, moles, wasps and the wax moth, plus the theft of whole hives! Fred and his partner run a successful company to include the selling of all sorts of honey products, collecting swarms, and giving talks. They have also been called upon to supply suitable candles on set for many films and series including Game of Thrones. Thanks to ‘the bee man’ for such an interesting and entertaining evening.
Filgroup’s next meeting is on April 7 and is an Easter workshop involving chocolate. Everything provided and everyone welcome so come along and enjoy the fun! For further details please email Filgroup15@gmail.com.