Through my own long-standing interest in bees and beekeeping, I have seen first-hand how caring for bees connects us with nature. Bees for Development achieves this on a truly global scale, supporting communities to nurture our shared environment and the biodiversity on which we all depend.

(This quote is taken from Her Majesty’s introduction to the Bees for Development book ‘A Way To Bee’)

Monty Don combines his love for gardening and the natural world with wonderful ability to inspire readers and viewers. Concerning plants and bees, Monty’s inclination is always to work closely with nature, making him an enthusiastic Patron of Bees for Development.

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall is a multi-award-winning writer and broadcaster known for his uncompromising commitment to seasonal, ethically produced food and his deep concern for the environment. A keen wild beekeeper and conservationist, Hugh is proud to be a Patron of Bees for Development, championing sustainable beekeeping as a powerful tool for combating poverty and supporting biodiversity. He has earned a huge following through his River Cottage TV series and books, as well as campaigning documentary series.

Baroness Anita Gale is a Labour Life Peer since 1999, and a Patron of Bees for Development since 2013. Anita has consistently promoted women’s rights and Welsh affairs, and we are delighted to enjoy her Patronage.

Kate Humble is a wonderful advocate for nature and farming. A broadcaster and author, Kate travels and works world-wide, and has made documentaries focused on rural people and their livelihoods. Kate runs a thriving rural skills centre close to Bees for Development in rural Monmouthshire, and we are delighted to have her support and Patronage.

Martha Kearney presents BBC Radio 4’s flagship Today Programme, where she manages to often mention bees amidst political news of the day. For many years we have greatly benefitted from Martha’s dual concerns for bees – as well as international social issues.

Sting has continuously drawn attention to the need for the protection of rainforests, and we are delighted to have his Patronage, emphasising the unique role of beekeepers as forest guardians. We understand that Sting gained his nickname after his habit of wearing a black and yellow sweater with hooped stripes.

Tom Seeley is the world’s foremost honey bee ecologist, based at Cornell University in the USA, and researching and writing about the natural life and behaviour of honey bees. Tom’s ground-breaking research informs and endorses our approach to beekeeping.

Sesi Turnbull is the wife of the much loved Bill Turnbull our Patron for over 20 years, giving us his time and support with enormous generosity. He really understood our work and the huge benefits that beekeepers can bring to people living in poverty. We are delighted that Sesi has agreed to take on Bill’s role.

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