News

A woman from Newington near Folkestone has got a bee in her bonnet about the declining bee population in the UK and is starting her own business to help stem the decline.

A self employed beekeeper for the last thirty years, Jean Mozley suffered a painful condition in 2008 which forced her to stop work while she received treatment.

Once the condition was under control Jean wanted to work, but in a new direction, and sought help from the Royal British Legion which provides employment, training and support for people, including those with disabilities.

Jean Mozley

They referred her to Enham’s Self Employment team and their Business Ability Programme, which helps disabled and disadvantaged people to start their own business.

The programme is a free and confidential service designed to help clients to make their business ideas happen and progress towards self employment.

Jean’s idea was to start a bee keeping academy and to teach the ‘gentle art of beekeeping’. The course will be the first in Britain and begins in January 2010 in the picturesque village hall in Jean’s home village of Newington.

Jean said: "The art of beekeeping is fascinating. Students will learn about pollination, how to keep bees safely, and understand the rudiments of bee behaviour. As a bee breeder, I'’ll also be able to sell queen bees to newly qualified bee keepers."

Jean can be contacted on 01303 273466 or mobile 07952739795 or email bees4u@tiscali.co.uk  for the prospectus