Many of our clients will know the importance that we put on setting and tracking progress on short, medium & long term goals within the context of your plans. These goals don’t have to have a financial aspect and can cover both personal and business objectives.

I’m pleased to report that I practice what I preach! Outside of work I am passionate about the craft of beekeeping which I commenced at the age of 10. My late father introduced me to beekeeping and gave great encouragement to develop my interest. He took me to the National Honey Show which was then staged at Kensington Town Hall and I remember being amazed at all the different types of honey, the quality of exhibits and the fascinating lectures from world renowned scientists and apiarists.

My hobby has developed over the years and I have been active on the committee of the Slough, Windsor & Maidenhead Beekeepers Society for 15 out of the last 20 years, culminating in my being Chairman for the last 3 years. Every year we have a Society honey show at which I have enjoyed much success exhibiting the produce from my colonies. However, I had only ever achieved a second place at the National Honey Show back in 2013. After that event I added to my personal objectives that one year I would go back and win.

This year’s National Honey Show was held at Sandown Racecourse in October and I can now tick off that personal goal as I won a first and a third prize as well as being presented with a trophy. The bees have been congratulated for their effort but now I have to think of setting us an even more challenging goal. Perhaps the world honey show at the 48th Apimondia Congress being held in Chile in 2023…..???

Jim collects the Harry Grainger Trophy, awarded for the best 1st prize frame, any size from Classes 39 (open to all beekeepers in the British Isles including the Republic of Ireland) and 159 (National Honey Show Classes – Open to Members of the National Honey Show.) Presented by Mrs Lynne Appleton, Kerax Holdings Ltd – Sponsors of the National Honey Show 2019.

The 1st Prize card & winning entry.

The trophy card.

The 3rd Prize card and entry.