TV comedian pays tribute to Bee Lady
DAVID WALLIAMS SAYS FAREWELL
DAVID Walliams has paid tribute to Hull’s “Bee Lady” Jean Bishop after her sad death aged 99.
The much-loved character, who was just a few short months from her 100th birthday, passed away peacefully on October 3.
The city fell in love with Jean, who could be seen dressed up in her bee costume in all areas of the city rattling her charity box as she raised money for Age UK.
The indefatigable pensioner raised an astonishing £124,000 for the charity during 30 years of fundraising, a feat which rightfully gained her national recognition when she was presented with a Pride of Britain award in 2013.
That was where she met comedian David Walliams, who handed her the award while dressed in his own bee costume.
David shared an image of the pair at the awards with his 2.3 million Twitter followers after the sad news broke on Friday.
He said: “Farewell Jean Bishop who left us aged 99.
“She was a true national treasure, collecting money for charity in Hull dressed as a bee. It was impossible not to adore her.”
In a further tweet, he added: “The best way to remember Jean Bishop the Bee Lady who left us aged 99 is to support the wonderful charity she raised money for [Age UK].”
Speaking after the awards ceremony in 2013, Jean, who was known for her sharp wit, said: “I think Mr Walliams would make a good bee, although he is quite a bit taller than me. He wouldn’t be allowed to steal my patch in Hull though.”
She also asked David if she could take him home, adding: “If you don’t ask, you don’t get.”
The Pride of Britain award was not the only accolade handed to Hull’s famous Bee Lady for her charity work.
She was also granted both the Freedom of the City and the British Empire Medal in 2017, while also meeting her hero Bradley Walsh on Tonight at the Palladium.
But winning awards and accolades was never Jean’s motivation.
She was humble and down to
earth, always ready with a smile and a witty comment and nothing was ever too much trouble.
She kept herself busy for as long as possible and only began to slow down in the past couple of years.
As well as a much loved local figure and fundraiser, Jean was firstly a mum, gran and great-gran.
She leaves behind daughter Jennifer, son John, grandchildren Claire, Mike, Sarah and Carl and great-grandchildren Noah and Eva.
Her family said they have been “overwhelmed” by the outpouring love and support from people in Hull.