Courses for beginners

[Debs1]

I may be interested in beekeeping, but really wanted to attend a course to find out more. I live in Caithness, but would be prepared to travel if it was a short/weekend course. After searching on the internet for hours I thought it would be best to ask here so any help would be appreciated.

[gavin]

Hi Debs

Can't think of a course at this time of year though many local associations across Scotland run courses in early spring or late winter. You should be able to find a beekeeper not so far from you who is willing to show you the insides of a beehive or two before the season comes to an end.

There are beekeepers in Olrig but I don't know them personally: http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/1188127

http://www.caithness.org/community/clubs/olriganddistrictbeekeepersassociation.htm

http://scottishbeekeepers.org.uk/About/LocalAssociations.aspx

Bear in mind that most of Caithness is still free of the bee pest Varroa, a mite. Local beekeepers would rather that if you decided to get into beekeeping they help you get bees rather than buying them in from an area with Varroa.

Its a fantastic hobby - really hope that you give it a go.