Notes from James
Keep It Rural was born from a passion for beekeeping, inspired by Gunter, my late father-in-law, Louise’s dad.
Gunter was a dedicated and skilled beekeeper for over fifty years. He was a big man with a big heart, our beekeeping teacher and mentor and most importantly, the best dad and best mate. There was
nothing Gunter didn’t know about bees and he taught us well.
Introducing us to the world of beekeeping, Gunter passed down his practice, skills and extensive knowledge to Louise and me, along with his treasured marmalade with honey recipe, which he had perfected over many years.
It was from Gunter that we learned the power and benefits of ‘keeping it local’. He was the local beekeeper, known and respected throughout the area as The Bee Man or The Honey Man, titles he
cherished.
Gunter’s popularity was boosted by his presence at many local farmers markets. Honey from Gunter’s bees, and his Marmalade with Honey graced many breakfast table in his home county of Buckinghamshire, whilst the bees wax candles he made, burned with a soft yellow glow wherever they were lit.
With this wonderful legacy close to our hearts, Louise and I now take pride in nurturing the bees. Keeping it Rural, we are managing and expanding our apiaries across the picturesque landscapes of Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Middlesex.
Nestled on farms, allotments and where appropriate, large sites that Lawn and Order work regularly. This ensures the bees thrive in environments rich in diverse flora. Our honey is more than just a product, it's a story of place and
purpose:
We are members of the British Beekeepers Association, in addition to Bedfordshire and North Bucks Beekeepers Associations.
Lawn & Order
In harmony with my role as Director of Lawn and Order, my professional gardening and landscaping company, we incorporate ‘bee friendly’ practice, including developing sustainable wildflower and where possible, some natural areas, within garden and sites that I care for with my Lawn and Oder staff.
Our approach reflects a profound respect for these extraordinary insects, recognising their crucial role in pollination and eco systems.
Subject to site suitability and comprehensive risk assessment,
we are open to considering siting and working with new apiaries at sites that are in our regular Lawn and Order work schedules. Please contact us if this is something that may be of interest.
Remember, when you purchase honey from Keep it Rural you can choose which county you would like it from.