AN ‘INSPIRATIONAL’ beekeeper has received an award from Prime Minister David Cameron recognising his services to the community.
Clive Joyce was recently named a ‘Point of Light’ by the Prime Minister to celebrate his work helping others take up beekeeping.
The 71-year-old from Kenilworth began beekeeping after seeing a bee-handling display in Stoneleigh. Clive’s wife booked him onto a course not long after and for the next 30 years Clive has devoted much of his life to the insects.
The retired firefighter now has 780,000 bees of his own and runs educational programmes to the public, inspiring hundreds of amateur beekeepers and novices to learn about the trade.
He also does charity work for the British Beekeepers Association – which educates people on the importance of bees to the environment.
Prime Minister David Cameron said: “Clive’s work is vital in ensuring that bees continue to thrive in Britain. As well as looking after his own colonies, Clive has encouraged and supported countless other enthusiasts to take up beekeeping, making sure they are trained and qualified. I am delighted to recognise Clive’s service with a Point of Light award.”
The award is given to a different person each day recognising remarkable achievements and those making a change in their community.
Clive received the 324th award, much to his delight.
He said: “The work involved in keeping bees has given me the opportunity to meet people young and old. Being able to help is rewarding enough, but this award is the absolute icing on the cake.”
