MP involved in local sting
Monday, 31 May 2010
Local MP John Pugh overcame his fear of bees to brave the bee hives of the Southport and Formby Beekeepers Association. The MP was there to support the opening of the Teaching Apiary which will help to train newcomers to the world of beekeeping.
The MP commented: "I was a little apprehensive about donning the white suit and veil and venturing into the hive, as I have a violent allergic reaction to wasp stings.It dates back to the time I tried to destroy a wasp nest in my garden I was told though that bee and wasp stings are different and I took that on faith. However with all that buzzing around me I don't know if I felt that assured."
"I was though pleasantly surprised. Bees are quite complex creatures and it was fascinating to learn more about the honey making process,from John Turner, Chairman of the Association. There is clearly a lot to learn and its important that people who decide to keep bees know exactly how its done."
John Pugh raised the issue of the importance of bee keeping to the pollination of crops and food supply in the House of Commons last year and with the then environment secretary Hilary Benn. Funding from DEFRA to safeguard and undertake more research into the health of bees and bee colonies was pledged early last year following a petition of 140,000 signatures from the Bee Keepers Association.