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The Chelmsford Division
actively encourages new members to join us in the
fascinating world of beekeeping.
Why would anyone want to
take up bee keeping? Well, it is a complex and
interesting pastime where there is always something new
to learn. In addition, keeping bees could lead you
into many related activities if you wish; including
visits and walks in the countryside; developing honey
recipes and hive products including beeswax candles,
beeswax polish, soap; using or learning woodwork and DIY
skills; exhibiting at shows and Farmers' Markets;
editorial input to websites and magazines; public
speaking; education and making new friends.
Beekeeping is an activity that
people of all ages and persuasions (+10 years old
with supervision of Parent or Guardian) can
indulge in. Some may need
a little help to lift the hive (or other equipment) when
necessary, at
certain times of the year.
You will get stung sooner
or later, but this should not discourage you. If you
have already been stung and suffered pain and swelling,
this is normal and you will soon build up resistance, although immunity can take years to achieve.
An allergic reaction is not just
the normal or exaggerated swelling about the sting site, but a swelling of all body
parts (anaphylactic shock) and should be taken very seriously. Speak
to your GP if you are on medication or have any doubts
about being stung. If you believe you may be allergic to bee
venom then clearly beekeeping is not for you!
Still want to join us or
want to find out more?
Read our
8 Steps to Becoming a Beekeeper
Download and complete a
Membership
Application Form or contact the
Chelmsford
Treasurer Ian Grant on
01277 652855.
When your application has been
processed you will receive a "welcome pack" including a
selection of beekeeping advisory leaflets and bee hardware
catalogues.
Costs of membership are shown
below:
Cost of
membership as of 2011
| Class of Membership |
Membership Cost |
Public Liability insurance |
Number of colonies cover for BDI* |
| Junior Membership (under 18 years) |
£6.50 |
no |
0 |
| |
|
|
|
| Associate Membership (Non Beekeeper) |
£5.00 |
no |
0 |
| |
|
|
|
| Single Membership (18+ years) |
£31.50 |
yes |
3 |
| |
|
|
|
|
Joint Membership (same
address) |
£50 |
yes |
6 |
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|
|
|
| Schools and Clubs |
£31.50 |
yes |
3 |
The membership
subscription includes
Bee
Disease Insurance BDI for 3 colonies. This covers
you for the loss of hive equipment due to bee disease.
For additional colonies please contact the
Chelmsford Treasurer
*Additional BDI insurance can be purchased as show
below:
Up to 5 colonies
(including the basic three) an additional £2.00
Up to 10 colonies (including the basic three) an
additional £5.25
Up to 15 colonies (including the basic three) an
additional £7.75
Up to 20 colonies (including the basic three) an
additional £9.50
Up to 25 colonies (including the basic three) an
additional £11.10
Up to 30 colonies (including the basic three) an
additional £13.60
Up to 35 oolonies (including the basic three) an
additional £16.10
More than 25 colonies (including the basic three) check
with the treasurer
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