Cradley churchyard set to be buzzing with activity (From Halesowen News)

Cradley churchyard set to be buzzing with activity

11:02am Tuesday 12th March 2013 in News

A CRADLEY church will be buzzing with activity as plans to bring bees into its memorial orchard are revealed.

St Peter’s Church has asked local bee keeper Douglas Cooley to bring a hive into its developing orchard which it hopes to transform into a haven for wildlife.

Rev’d Katryn Leclézio said the churchyard boasts a series of lime trees planted in memory of World War I soldiers who attended Cradley C of E.

She said: “Lime honey is one of the best honeys.

“So, lime trees plus bees, plus a hive will add to the diversity of the wildlife in this urban green space.

“Honey is one of nature’s wonderful gifts.

“The Bible speaks of its healing properties, its nutritional properties and it is seen as a blessing from God.

“We are delighted we will be able to place a hive in the churchyard over the spring.”

Local schoolchildren who use parts of the churchyard as a Forest School will be able to observe the bees at work and might even be able to sample their produce.

A group of volunteers, called GreenSpace, meets once a month to work on developing the churchyard into a haven for wildlife, plants and people.

They have been working to clear the site, while permission is sought for planting.

Check St Peter’s website for details and dates.