It’s been a busy time for Willingham beekeepers this year with quite a number of bee swarms in the village. A bee swarm occurs when half the bees in a colony leave and go looking for a new home of their own. This month’s photo shows Mr. H. Seamark who was the village beekeeper in the early 1900’s. He is wearing a “bee beard” which is done by collecting a swarm and allowing it to cling onto your face! This picture appeared on a calling card with the heading “From: Mr. H. Seamark, Bee expert, Willingham” and presumably advertising his services. Although bees are very docile when in a swarm I think we should still say “don’t try this at home!”
June 2015
