Bee-ing in the presence of royalty

Bees for Development is a fantastic charity that has helped thousands of families around the world earn an income from sustainable beekeeping. Every couple of years they hold a Bee Garden Party to raise much needed funds and this year I attended with the husband, and what an event it was.

On entering we were presented with yummy Fortnum and Mason champagne and despite the rain had a lovely time exploring the numerous stands, including an interesting display of hives used around the world and a beautiful floral display by McQueens flowers; a recreation of their Chelsea flower show installation “Honey I’m Home”, decorated with pollen rich wild flowers which was stunningly beautiful.

We met lots of interesting people on the way round, a very friendly bunch indeed. I tried some Mead from Marourde which was surprisingly excellent - as was the honey whisky from Beeble Honey, mmmm.

Whilst admiring the large bee, painted by talented artist Alex Hirtzel, we were in the right place at the right time as HRH Duchess of Cornwall visited the display and we stood just feet from her whilst she discussed the work, such an honour.

Later I met TV royalty in the form of Bill Turnbull and had the pleasure of talking to him about his book and getting stung by bees, this just prior to watching Mary Berry and Martha Kearney talk about gardens, baking and bees - my favourite subjects!

Although I didn’t win anything in the silent auction, the husband and I had the best time trying different foods and drinks (although truffle infused honey wasn’t our favourite, the croissant-lemon meringue fusion was!)

Time came to leave so we departed via the Fortnum & Mason tuk tuk for a cup of tea. Goody bags in hand, we made our damp way home having had such a wonderful experience and proclaiming what a marvellous world we’ve entered since taking up beekeeping!