The BeeHolder, April 2011

Those visiting recently (see pictures on the back cover) will have noticed the gorgeous daffodils in the apiary and the bright paint on the hives. We found that despite putting new hives into the apiary they were looking a bit tatty after the winter. It was getting difficult to tell the new from the old. This will make it easier for us to stock the apiary for now we can receive old hives, sterilise them and then paint them in jolly colours. So any spare hives or other equipment you may have would be gratefully received to help stock up this new and valuable asset for the MBKA!

Apart from the painting, nothing else has been changed over the winter period. The new viewing hut has been delivered in kit form and we are just waiting for some bureaucratic form filling to be completed (planning permissions). Then we will need a rush team of helpers to wheelbarrow concrete into the trenches, some strong arms to hold the first few uprights and then some nimble fingers to help tack the safety wire into place. Please volunteer your services to Dave Bennett.

The MBKA is responsible for slating the roof. Weathered slates are preferred and unfortunately we have had no success in getting any. Has anybody an idea to help here? Any source of free or cheap slates?

Please remember that car parking at Gregynog is free for MBKA members. If you haven’t got your Car Park Pass yet just announce yourself to Reception who will give you one valid for a month.

Tony Shaw