The Society held its annual Honey Show on 11 November 2025 at The Lodge, Gorseinon. Over thirty members, new and long-standing attended for the competition and the annual buffet.
There were over thirty entries on the honey table in four categories – light, medium, dark and set. It was edifying to see that the most entries were in the set honey category which included naturally set and “creamed” honey
Judging was carried out by members who marked each entry on a scale of 1 to 5 under four headings – clarity, aroma, taste and viscosity. The beauty of this system is that it gives a genuine reflection of what our fellow members consider is the best honey in each category. This must be the best accolade!
The Jonathan Bowen Memorial Shield is awarded to the honey/entrant deemed to be the best on the night. Last year it was won by Marcus Treadwell.
The 2025 results were as follows:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Jonathan Bowen Memorial Shield | Chris Bradley |
| Light Honey – First place | Chris Bradley |
| Second place | |
| Third place | |
| Medium Honey – First place | |
| Second place | |
| Third place | David O’Carroll |
| Dark honey – First place | |
| Second place | |
| Third place | |
| Set honey – First place | Caleb |
| Second place | |
| Third place | |
| Wax blocks – First place | David O’Carroll |
| Second place | |
| Third place | Chris Bradley |
| Wax candles | Chris Bradley |
The Chairman was also pleased to present Russell Davies with his Basic Bee Husbandry certificate.
Our special thanks go to Nicola Oulton and Karen Squires for organising the competition.
Don’t forget
The Christmas Dinner will be held on Friday 12th December 2025 at the Bristol Channel Yacht Club, Mumbles. There will be a complimentary drink on arrival and designated drivers will have free soft drinks throughout the evening. All members and partners are invited, and although spaces are limited, there should be more than enough availability based on the attendance last year. There is a choice of two or three courses on the Christmas Menu. Download menu below,
If you are interested in attending can you please let Martin have your menu choices by Friday 5th December along with a non-refundable deposit of £5 per person.
sdbks.secretary@gmail.com