For the past five years Linda has spent many fulfilling hours caring for her back garden apiary. Her honey has been enjoyed by many happy customers, both local and around the county: her wax wraps and candles have made money for numerous conservation groups.
Three years ago, following long, drawn-out planning disputes involving all the local villagers, the parish and district councils were over-ruled by some faceless planner in Whitehall, who allowed our 'neighbour' to have a small bungalow crammed into her back garden: she claimed this was for her disabled brother, but as soon as it was completed she sold it to a fugitive from urban life who is just moving in. From the photo you can see how the new build was jammed up against our boundary.
Once a week or so Linda suits up to inspect the bees: this happened to coincide with our new neighbour pottering about the other side of the fence. Unfortunately a bee settled on his head and he panicked, slapping away until it stung him. Other bees, attracted by the pheromones released by the dying bee, joined in: he subsequently claimed to have been stung a number of times.
When he turned up at our front door Linda and I tried to speak rationally, explaining that not a single neighbour has ever been stung or had cause to complain: we promised to raise the height of the fence and hang out a sign when maintainance was going on. Although we parted with a handshake, his manner and attitude this morning had changed: he was provocative and confrontational. Sadly, although there is no legal compulsion to do so, Linda has decided to give up the hobby that has been such a important, daily part of her life....
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