We were very fortunate to have Philip Walker, the Bee-Keeper for Pensthorpe, as our guest in May, who gave an insight into the physical and social structure of a bee hive.
A colony of honey bees has around 70,000 bees made up of female workers, male drones and 1 queen. The queen lives for around 4 years, but the rest of the bees only live for around 6 weeks in spring and fulfil a variety of duties in the hive during their short lives. They gather food within a 3 mile radius of the hive, and among their favourite flowers are white clover (not red), heather, and red currant bushes. Their decline due to the Varoa mite, and viruses, is causing concern as the fruit, vegetables, and flowers that we enjoy require pollination, therefore a decline in pollinators will affect these, as well as a fall in the production of honey. (Bumblebees do not produce honey). However, bee hives do not look after themselves, and anyone deciding to keep bees should contact an experienced bee keeper to see how much work is involved and whether or not it is a commitment that they can make.
On July 22nd the Gardening Club is having a Social Evening so bring some food along, and also bring your most interesting tea/coffee mug. There will be a prize for the winner.
The Annual Show is on Saturday 7th August. There are schedules in the PO/café so help yourself and have a think about what to enter in the show. It is open to everyone and there are special sections for children to enter.
CHILDREN'S SECTION
The Annual Gardening Club Show is on Saturday 7th August in the Memorial Hall and there are special sections for children under 16 years to enter.
Ages up to 7 - Animal Created from Vegetables
Ages 8 and over - Animals Created from Vegetables
Ages up to 7 - A Picture of "A Garden" approx size A4, any material
Ages 8 and over - A Picture of "A Garden" approx size A4, any material
We had a terrific response last year from the children of North Elmham who created a very imaginative collection of scarecrows, so let those imaginations loose again this year.
