A Jersey-based family business is asking you to ‘Back the Bees’ this Christmas
“What started as a conversation with my wife and daughter over breakfast about bee conservation has led us down a path we really didn’t expect” says Shaun Gell, Founder of Jersey Honey.
In 2012 Shaun’s daughter, Hannah, read about the declining number of bees and the effect this was having on the natural environment. She was upset to read that the European Red List for Bees reports almost one in ten species of wild bees face extinction.
With bees playing a big role in pollinating not only wild plants but the crops we eat as well, Shaun and Hannah decided they wanted to help.
With 30 years’ experience in the health and beauty industries as a salon owner and hairdresser, Shaun said that he knew he could use his knowledge to incorporate our fantastic local honey into beauty products such as soaps, hand creams and hair care.
Honey has antibacterial properties, can be used as a natural antiseptic, provides hydration and on testing, Shaun and Hannah say that Jersey honey was among the very best, with over seven times more potassium and a higher mineral content than four leading brands of honey.
As the business has grown Shaun and Hannah have placed sustainability at the heart everything they do. Jersey Honey are a certified carbon neutral partner and are committed to making sure the benefits of the business are shared, through their own bee conservation efforts.
What can you do to back the bees this Christmas?
- Allocate an area of your garden or a plant box to wildflowers, the bees love them.
- Buy or create an insect hotel to encourage bee and other bugs to feel at home in your garden.
- If you have space why not start your own beehive? The Jersey Beekeepers Association are a wealth of knowledge and support.
- Buy local honey products as Christmas gifts for your loved ones this year.
