Southwold Millennium Foundation has installed two bee hives at the town’s Community Orchard in an exciting new project supported by Durrants.

The Foundation, which operates from the Millennium/Stella Peskett Hall provides vital funds for the local community via various initiatives including car parking at Millennium Meadow, and the running of Lighthouse Tours. The Community Orchard, which is in the meadow opposite the Hall, was established 2017, the produce of which is free for local residents.

Southwold Bees was initiated by trustee, Simon Tobin and chairman, Michael Ladd, who approached Durrants Estate Agency to request funding from their Charitable Foundation. Upon successfully receiving funds of £1,500 the Foundation has purchased two hives, two swarms of bees and all the necessary protective equipment.

“We’re really excited about the installation of the Southwold Bees hives.” said Simon Tobin. “As bees continue to decline in the UK it is important that we nurture them, and our Community Orchard is the perfect spot. We will be using this project to reach out to local schools to teach children about the importance of bees.”

Zuhal Tobin will be maintaining the hives having attended a course run by Waveney Beekeepers Group and is supported by their chairman, David Martin.

Dominic Parravani, Managing Director of Durrants commented about the project “We are delighted to support Southwold Bees. It’s a really interesting project from which local schools will benefit. Of course we’re looking forward to tasting the first batch of honey too!”

It is expected that Southwold Bees honey will be sold to raise further funds for Southwold Millennium Foundation.

Pictured (left to right); David Martin of Waveney Beekeepers Assoc; Michael Ladd; Dominic Parravani of Durrants; Zuhal Tobin; Simon Tobin.