The group recently partnered with local teaching assistants from St Catherine’s CofE School to create a new bee club for their pupils. Years 5 and 6 pupils have been actively involved in tending to the hives on a regular basis, and four pupils even achieved junior beekeeping certificates!

However, with their time at primary school drawing to a close, the bee organisation has recognised that it may be difficult for current members to maintain their interest. With beekeeping groups like Launceston’s generally having a more ‘mature’ age profile, the group is looking at new ways to encourage youngsters to come through and become the ‘beekeepers of tomorrow’.

As a result, they have established a junior section within the group, aptly named ‘The Big Buzz Club’ by the four current junior members. They have a site located at Pipers Pool, and were fortunate enough to purchase bee hives and equipment from a couple of Launceston Beekeeping Group members who have since moved from the area.

The group plans on incorporating the junior beekeepers into their Saturday training sessions, which begins on 29th March and will continue on a weekly basis into spring and summer. These sessions are open to all.

Paul Burridge, secretary for the Launceston Beekeeping Group, said: “So far we have four junior members and we are delighted to welcome George, Gracie, Esmae and Hannah to the LBG. We hope they will attend as many Saturday sessions as possible and essentially they will be responsible for the hive of bees that the LBG has purchased for them. Under our guidance they will perform all the manipulations and provide the care for their bees throughout the coming season. Any products produced will belong to the juniors.”

Now the group is looking to expand! If you have a little nature lover at home who is looking for a new hobby, or would like to explore a current interest in bees by getting stuck in, email paulburridge@sky.com or call 07713 416 007.

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