Local Honey Hatherton

Hatherton Honey is run by Chris, a hobbyist beekeeper based in Hatherton, South Cheshire. The operation began as a natural extension of a passion for gardening, wildlife and ecology, originally prompted by difficulties pollinating greenhouse peaches and apricots. Once a hive was introduced, the results were immediate and the venture grew from there. Chris now manages an increasing number of honey bee colonies, with hives located not only around the home base in South Cheshire but also on farms in North Staffordshire and North Shropshire, where the bees assist with crop pollination. A particular focus is placed on encouraging the hardy native British Black bee (Apis mellifera mellifera). The operation is run on a not-for-profit basis, with any funds reinvested into equipment and consumables. Products include pure cold-pressed floral honey (available runny and soft set, in 227g, 340g and 454g jars), beeswax candles, beeswax furniture polish, propolis tincture, beeswax lip balm and lavender balm. Chris also offers an Adopt-a-Hive scheme, a free local swarm collection service, free equipment for new beekeepers, free lectures and bee-related advice, and sells pre-owned sterilised and reconditioned beekeeping equipment.