Beekeeping is a fascinating and rewarding hobby but should not be entered into without careful thought and proper training.

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Bee behaviour can be complex and sometimes difficult to interpret. Only with proper training and some hands-on experience is it possible to understand and manage a colony of bees to prevent them being a nuisance to others.  Badly managed honeybee colonies can spread disease and stings can be life-threatening. 

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Just like livestock, honeybees need to be regularly checked - at least once a week from April to September.  This is to monitor health and anticipate swarming, so the beekeeper can take swarm prevention measures if required.   

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So, to be a beekeeper you should:

• Be committed!

• Undertake a reputable training course before you get any bees, preferably with an organisation that's part of the British Beekeepers Association.

• Try and get some support from an experienced beekeeper - at least for your first couple of seasons.

• Identify an appropriate place to keep your bees, one with enough space where they will not present a hazard to neighbours or passers-by.

• Ensure you will have enough time to do inspections every 6-7 days during the summer.

• Be aware that it will cost at least £500 to buy the necessary equipment to start with, even secondhand.

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