Ben Harden (right) from Co Wicklow, the guest speaker at the AGM of Dromore Beekeeper's Association held on September 18 is seen here with newly elected chairman Dr Patrick Lundy (left)

DROMORE and District Beekeeping Association held a very successful Annual General Meeting at the start of their new season.

A total of ten office bearers were elected along with a six member supporting Committee.

Office Bearers for the forthcoming year (2007/2008) are Dr Patrick Lundy (Chairman), Mr Sam Baird (Vice-Chairman), Mr Norman Walsh (Secretary and Press Officer), Mr Terry Ingles (Assistant Secretary), Mr Gail Orr (Treasurer), Mr Billy Douglas (Honey Show Manager), Mrs Anne Wilson (Librarian), Mr Kevin Maguire (Apiary Manager) and Mr David Wright (Auditor).

Committee members elected are Mr Mervyn Eddie, Mr Nigel Erskine, Mr Alan Porter, Mr John Kirkpatrick, Mr Robert McCreery and Mr Cecil McMullan.

Following the A.G.M. members enjoyed an informative talk on 'The Practice of Varroa Management and Control' from Mr Ben Harden who is a well respected and practical beekeeper from Arklow, Co Wicklow.

As Varroa control is foremost in beekeepers minds as the winter season approaches, it was beneficial that Mr Harden explained the life cycle of the varroa mite, the need to monitor mite drop in bee colonies and the use of control measures and preventative treatments.

The talk was concluded by a short question and answer session. The next meeting will be held on October 16 at 7.30pm in Dromore High School. New members will be especially welcome.

Ulster Star
28/09/2007