Page 21 - HPH News June 2017

Crathorne & CRO

Bees Activity is Buzzing at Crathorne
Chris Clark, who is responsible for the Grounds at
Crathorne, is about to start a course in beekeeping in
order to help support our buzzy little friends. Although
this is something Chris will be doing in his spare time, he
hopes to be able to house his hives at Crathorne Hall. A
local beekeeper has also kept bee hives at Crathorne for
a few years, so this will be the ideal opportunity for Chris
to gain some hands on advice and support.

In the UK about 70 crops are dependent on, or benefit
from, visits from bees. In addition, bees pollinate the
flowers of many plants which become part of feed for
farm animals. The economic value of honey bees and
bumblebees as pollinators of commercially grown
insect-pollinated crops in the UK has been estimated at
over £200 million per year. Bees are in danger of
disappearing from our environment. Farming practices
continue to disturb natural habitats at a rate which
gives them little chance for re-establishment. The
honey bee is under attack from the varroa mite and it
is only the treatment and care provided by beekeepers
that is keeping colonies alive. Most wild honey bee
colonies have died out as a result of this disease.

Chris has also been busy around the grounds
at Crathorne creating pathways which all now
link up into one route around the estate for
guests to enjoy a gentle stroll that will take
them about 20 minutes. Wooden tables and
seating have so been added within the
walkway for those who wish to enjoy some
quiet time in this lovely setting. Chris has also
used old pallets to create compost heap bins!