Norton Priory to become a hive of activity
YOUNG people in Runcorn and Widnes have been offered the chance to learn the ancient art of bee keeping and how to take honey to market.
For two days a week over the holidays, participants aged 15 to 24 years old can head to Norton Priory to join other budding ‘apiculturists’ to explore the historical site, gardens and grounds.
Organisers said human beekeeping has been practised for millennia, since at least the times of ancient Egypt and Greece.
Bees also produce beeswax, royal jelly and propolis, which is a type of glue.
The furry flyers have appeared in mythology and folklore since ancient times and they have featured in works of literature as varied as Virgil’s Georgics, Beatrix Potter’s The Tale Of Mrs Tittlemouse, and WB Yeats’s poem The Lake Isle Of Innisfree.
Their larvae are included in the Javanese dish botok tawon, where they are eaten steamed with shredded coconut.
Cllr Tom McInerney (children, young people and families) said: “This is a great opportunity to learn about these fascinating creatures.” Booking is essential. To reserve a place or ask any questions email the relevant name and age to Lynnekavanagh@ blackbunehouse.co.uk or call 0151 709 4356 extension 2224.
The sessions are on from 10am to 3pm on Monday, July 31; Tuesday, August 1; Monday, August 7; Tuesday, August 8; Monday, August 14; Tuesday, August 15; Monday, August 21; Tuesday, August 22; Tuesday, August 29; and Wednesday, August 30. ●