By Simon and Max

Beekeeping is more than just a hobby for Simon and Max – it’s a shared passion that has grown over the years. Simon first got involved when he was a warden at Bellfields allotment, finally fulfilling his long-held desire to work with bees. Just eight months later, Max, then only eight years old, joined him, driven by his fascination with insects.

Starting out came with challenges. The cost of equipment was high, and the first bee stings were certainly memorable. Simon quickly learned that asking for advice could lead to more opinions than answers—there’s a saying among beekeepers: “If you ask 10 beekeepers the same question, you’ll get 11 answers.” One of the biggest lessons was realising that bees are wild creatures; no matter how well you plan, they always have their own ideas!

Despite the challenges, beekeeping has been an incredible experience for Simon and Max. Max has grown into a skilled beekeeper, working alongside his father during hive inspections. “It’s a great experience working with my son, surrounded by bees flying around us,” Simon shares. Their teamwork has strengthened their bond and given them a unique appreciation for the natural world. Their beekeeping journey isn’t just personal—it’s also about community. They sell honey at local events including St Peters and Ripley farmers market, and enjoy conversations with curious visitors. Simon always welcomes questions and has even invited non-beekeepers to see the bees in action, helping others understand these remarkable insects.

To expand their reach, they have created two websites: localbees.co.uk for their honey and beespokehives.co.uk for beekeeping advice and equipment guidance. Their goal is to continue sharing their knowledge and passion, ensuring that more people appreciate the importance of bees.

For anyone interested in beekeeping, Simon offers this advice: “Join a local group and learn the right way. Bees are wild creatures, and in inexperienced care, they can be dangerous. But it’s a rewarding and fantastic honour to manage bees, considering their importance to our way of life.”

Simon and Max’s story is one of learning, perseverance, and shared experiences. Through their dedication, they not only nurture their hives but also inspire those around them to appreciate the vital role of bees in our world.